?Don?t Pay the Money, I?ll Play the Whole Year Free?: Michael Jordan?s Iconic Teammate Once Put Millions on the Line and Walked Out as an NBA Legend

The Chicago Bulls of the 1990s were a powerhouse, spearheaded by none other than Michael Jordan. They were a dominating force that decade as they lifted six NBA titles in eight years. One pivotal member of those legendary Bulls teams was Dennis Rodman.

Moreover, Rodman was all about his business. ‘The Worm’ was on the floor to defend multiple positions, rebound like a lunatic, and ignite the court with his ferocious zeal. One thing he consistently brought was mayhem on the defensive end of the floor.

The power forward was a fierce competitor who gave his all every night. He was supremely confident in his skills and role, believing that no one could do what he did better. In fact, Rodman was so confident in his abilities that he was ready to put millions of dollars on the line to prove his worth to the league and the Bulls.

Dennis Rodman was willing to risk millions to prove his worth to the Bulls and the NBA

In an interview with Playboy once, Rodman complained about players who aren’t worth it being paid excessively. Playboy responded by saying that people would be surprised to hear him rant about these over hyped NBA players. Following that, Rodman exuded tremendous confidence in his talents.

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“Fine, but you know what? I am about to do something that has never been done in the history of sport,” Rodman said. “Before next season I am going to sign a $9 million or $10 million contract and tell the team, ‘If I?m not worth it, don?t pay me. If I don?t play up to that contract, keep the money.’ I?ll play the whole year for free,” he added.

The interview was conducted in June 1997. This means Rodman’s career with the Chicago Bulls came to a close the following season. And, to be fair, it was a storybook finish to a legendary Bulls career.

The Bulls had just won back-to-back NBA championships and were aiming for a second three-peat in that decade. With a 62-20 record, the franchise ended the season as the first seed in the Eastern Conference. And, as one might anticipate, the Bulls marched to the NBA Finals yet again, spearheaded by the iconic trio of Jordan, Pippen, and Rodman.

Following an intense showdown against the Utah Jazz, they routed them in six games to clinch the historical three-peat. Throughout the season, the franchise saw various ups and downs; yet, through trials and tribulations, they emerged triumphant.

Rodman was crucial throughout the season, embracing his role as a bonafide legend both during the regular season and in the playoffs.

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It’s remarkable to see how confident he was in his talents and that he was prepared to put millions on the line before the season even started. He demonstrated that he was worth every dime he was paid that season.