Dennis Rodman was quite the diva in the 80s. His entire personality was quite eccentric and rockstar-like. Rodman was the greatest rebounder anyone had ever seen. He would practice rebounding for Michael Jordan and understood how the ball would respond to his shooting. His off-court persona was as much of a topic of discussion as his on-court athleticism. Rodman once told Phil Jackson that he needed a break during the 1998 NBA Finals. He took a 48-hour trip to Vegas, and Michael Jordan had to drag him out.

Rodman was always more than just a basketball player. He was unapologetically himself. Interestingly, when Michael Jordan would compare himself to the greats, he would pick Larry Bird or Magic Johnson. If LeBron were to talk about his idols, it would be Kobe Bryant and MJ. Dennis Rodman was always different. He compared himself to rock icons with the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, and Elvis Presley.

This just goes to show the showman that Rodman was. He was an icon in more ways than one. Rodman was a trendsetter in many ways. The colored hair, tattoos, flashy apparel, and partying were always his flagship and persona. He once said that he himself is Elvis. Some of Rodman’s statements are quite bizarre, but they work with his personality. 

Dennis Rodman is Elvis Presley

Elvis is not dead. In fact, Elvis Presley played for the Chicago Bulls and rebounded for Michael Jordan. Michael Jordan and Elvis ruled the court and won three championships together. As crazy as it sounds, this is exactly what Dennis Rodman told Playboy magazine.

Dennis said, “They say Elvis is dead. I say, no, you’re looking at him. Elvis isn’t dead; he just changed color.”

WATCH THIS STORY: 3 Times 395 Pound NBA Giant Shaquille ONeal Scared The Life Out Of Fans By Diving Head First Into The Crowd

This isn’t the only time Dennis has compared himself to rockstars. Being in the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, and Janice Joplin is all part of his idea of stardom. Rodman said, “I say I’m Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin all wrapped up into one. If I die early … I’ll be just like those guys.”

Jordan and Rodman had completely opposing views on stardom. MJ hated the press and the paparazzi. He hated being Michael Jordan by the end of his career as stardom and celebrity status were not attractive to him. 

Rodman loved to be in the center of the spotlight. He confessed to Playboy what his idea of a celebrity is.

READ MORE: Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James: Who wins the battle of money?

Rodman’s legacy is solidified as an entertainer and an NBA athlete. He is truly quite the diva!