Dennis Rodman was an outstanding basketball player and an eccentric character. But if you look back in time, Rodman’s life was full of twists and turns. From working as a janitor, to living in a city where tensions were at their peak, he has had quite the journey. The Chicago Bulls legend’s life was so daunting that his mother Shirley Rodman spent several moments worrying about her son.

For many years, Shirley was the only caregiver for her three children. When Rodman was only three years old, his father left his wife and children. Rodman has shared numerous stories growing up with his two sisters. Having once lost his job as a janitor, Rodman spent a night in Dallas Airport’s jail. The reason being, he took a stolen watch from his coworker and handed it to a friend. On that day, the 2x NBA All-Star decided to make a major change in his life.

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His determination took him to a small town named Durant in Southeastern Oklahoma State. There, he joined NAIA College.

Dennis Rodman left his mother to live her worst nightmare

Dennis Rodman quotes the town as a place that ”really wasn`t ready to accept a black.” But then his life took another turn when he was befriended by a white family called the Riches. It all started with the friendship between Rodman and Bryne Rich. Today, it may not appear to be a serious challenge; however at the time, it was a huge deal.

At that time, Durant was a dark place, where passenger trains rumbled through with the window shades pulled down. Shirley Rodman was living a nightmare every day because of insecurity. She said,” I think of the nights I sat in this apartment here alone for hours, night after night, wondering, `Is my son dead tonight? Is he gonna be in jail when I wake up tomorrow? Or the day after that?”

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But Rodman kept the promise that he made to himself. He wanted to stand on his own two feet, and change his own life. And numerous years later, he went on to become one the greatest defenders the NBA world has ever seen. Rodman proceeded to claim five championship titles; 2 with the Detroit Pistons and 3 with the mighty Chicago Bulls.

Over the years, Dennis Rodman has truly witnessed it all. Did you know about this rare story? Do tell us your thoughts in the comments below.