Michael Jordan and Dennis Rodman were teammates together for three years. And they were very successful together, winning three titles out of three. They used to complement each other well on the court. But once Jordan made a joke about Rodman’s preparations for the season and he bought up the number of dresses he wears.

Back in 1997, the Chicago Bulls won back-to-back titles and were looking to win their sixth overall. Jordan was coming after another impressive Finals run and another Finals MVP performance. Rodman had got into trouble with the NBA and was dealing with injuries. As a result, he couldn’t contribute as much as he would have wished.

But there was no doubt that he was an important member of the team and the Bulls wanted him back.

Michael Jordan admits the importance of Rodman, then makes fun of his fashion choices

When Jordan launched his own personal wellness brand, he came on to the Tonight Show with Jay Leno to promote it. He confirmed that he is signing for another year. And he also confirmed Scottie Pippen and his coach, Phil Jackson are returning as well.

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Then Leno asked about Rodman. Jordan said, ” I think Dennis is close. Right now he’s just trying to determine some of his penalties and how to keep him focused. How many dresses does he get to wear and all that stuff.”

“Some of the simple things,” he added.

After that, Jordan and Leno joked about Rodman a bit more. But Jordan made his intentions clear about Rodman. He wanted him back desperately and called him the best rebounder in the game. The Hall-of-Famer also pointed out that Rodman’s rebounding is so good that people often overestimate his size.

At the same time, he continued to poke fun at his teammate. In fact, the Bulls legend joked that Rodman is 6’9″ with his heels on. Therefore, he further made fun of the five-time NBA champion’s dressing choices.

And Rodman came back the next season. Despite all the troubles at the front office and the uncertainty over the future, the Bulls were the favorites to repeat. After a grueling Eastern Conference Finals, the Bulls went on to beat the Utah Jazz again and secure their sixth title.

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Jordan may joke about Rodman but he was well aware how important he was to the team.