“I Didn’t Understand How to Be a Professional Athlete..”: Bulls Legend Dennis Rodman on His Initial Struggles in the NBA (2019)

Published 10/22/2022, 4:30 PM EDT

On the floor, Dennis Rodman was easily identifiable because of his colorful hair and unique style. And his colorful life often lead him to make headlines off the court. In 1986, he made his NBA debut with the Detroit Pistons. And he quickly rose to prominence, and the world seemed to be drawn to his straightforwardness. However, there were moments when Rodman believed he didn’t understand how to be a professional athlete.

Widely recognized as one of the greatest defensive player in NBA history, Rodman lived a completely different and turbulent life than other players. The Worm won five championships throughout his career. Two with the Detroit Pistons in 1989 and 1990, and three with the mighty Chicago Bulls in 1996, 1997, and 1998.

Article continues below this ad

“What the Hell Was That For?”: Getting Smacked in the Chest on Court by NBA Legend Had Dennis Rodman Baffled vs Lakers in 1987

Rodman had been involved in a number of heated controversies throughout his career. Because of his dark yet intriguing personality, his relationships often extended well beyond NBA courts.

Dennis Rodman shared his initial challenge as a professional athlete

Rodman spoke about his personal and professional life in an interview in 2019. He mentioned how people enjoy hearing him because of his honesty. And he enjoys expressing his emotions since that is what he has always done. Rodman Said,” I just felt like the fact that people want me to continue to be the individual I’ve been for the last 25-30 years and I’ve got to show them that image of me and not to portray something that I’m not.”

Article continues below this ad

And the Chicago Bulls Legend further spoke about the beginning of his career with the Detroit Pistons. He said, “I just knew you had to chuck, run, play defense, shoot. That was it. I didn’t understand how to be a professional athlete when I came into the league in ’86.” Rodman further explained that he didn’t have a structured idea of how to play organized basketball. He merely knew the basics and then built on them to create one of the most adorned basketball careers ever.

WATCH THIS STORY: Arnold Schwarzenegger, LeBron James, Dennis Rodman, and David Beckham all are proud owners of this four-wheeler beast

Article continues below this ad

How do you think the Chicago Bulls will fare this season? Let us know in the comments below.

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Ritesh Jha is an NBA writer for EssentiallySports. He is currently pursuing his Bachelor's in Technology in Computer Science from Rungta College. Ritesh worked as an intern content writer for a digital marketing agency called KCAS Branding before joining EssentiallySports.

“I Didn’t Understand How to Be a Professional Athlete..”: Bulls Legend Dennis Rodman on His Initial Struggles in the NBA (2019)

Dennis Rodman shared his initial challenge as a professional athlete

Trending

7’4 Victor Wembanyama, Accused of Disrespecting Knicks Star, Gets MVP Shout-Out From Unbothered Jalen Brunson

After Nike, Sha’Carri Richardson Follows Lebron James Footsteps In Historic Partnership With Sprite

Possible Shohei Ohtani Ban From MLB Has Shaq Questioning $700 Million Contract

Is Dawn Staley Married? Details on South Carolina Coach’s Love Life and Special Bond With Lisa Boyer

Why Is Gabbie Marshall Not Invited to the 2024 WNBA Draft Despite Graduating From Iowa?