?He Does Things That Are Totally Different Than…?: Michael Jordan Once Admitted Dennis Rodman Left Him Surprised with His Basketball Knowledge

Chicago Bulls legend Dennis Rodman made rebounding his bread and butter for almost the entirety of his career. And add his unforgiving defense on top of that, and then you’ll have a player who deserves a starting spot in any team?s rotation. The Worm did not directly contribute to the offense by scoring numerous points, but his rebounding and defense led to his team generating some easy looks on the offensive end.

Rodman?s rebounding abilities led to the team?s fast-break points and his defense led to steals and deflections which only added to his value as a player. The Worm just did things on the floor that other players wouldn?t.

Dennis Rodman and the things he brought to the table

His energy, his relentlessness, and the hustle he brought to the court every night are not something that can be taught. And that is why Rodman was such an indispensable part of the Chicago Bulls.

In the docuseries, ?The Last Dance,? even coach Phil Jackson spoke in high regard of the Bulls legend. He understood what Rodman brought to the table and how he could be coached. And that is why the 1996 Bulls are still considered as one of the best teams to ever play the game.

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And it wasn?t just Phil Jackson, Michael Jordan recognized the Worm’s genius as well. Michael saw what he could do and how he could help them win championships. In a 1996 interview, Jordan sat down and gave his views on Dennis Rodman.

He said, ?I?m surprised with his basketball knowledge, his fundamentals, and his understanding of the system.? Michael further added, ?He does things that are totally different than a lot of people but when he steps on that basketball court, he gives a 110%.?

Rodman had an eccentric personality and his off-the-court antics may have attracted unwanted media attention. But when it came time to perform and be there for his team, he was always there.

The indispensable Rodman

Rodman won seven consecutive rebounding titles and two defensive player of the year awards. He also won five NBA championships with two different dynasties. The Worm just knew where to be on the floor to grab rebounds, tip the ball to his teammates, help on defense, and do plenty of other things that don?t show up on the stat sheet.?

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With the type of childhood that Rodman had, he sure made the most of it. Not just by making it to the NBA but also by going down as the best rebounder in basketball.