Dennis Rodman’s defensive prowess, along with his unrivalled rebounding ability, paved the way for a legendary career. The Worm was a valuable asset to whichever team he took his talents to. His propensity to excel at what he did, and the tenacity he brought to the court nightly, enabled him to blanket his career with gold, winning five NBA championships.

Rodman was a colorful and eccentric individual who served as a beacon of individuality for countless. However, throughout his upbringing, the Chicago Bulls legend encountered several hardships. Moreover, his childhood lacked one of the most important aspects of a child’s upbringing, parental affection.

Rodman was three years old when his father abandoned him, his sisters, and his mother. This opened the floodgates for a plethora of other troubles to plague their lives. Rodman and his sisters moved to Dallas with their mother, Shirley Rodman, in hopes of a better life. She did, however, struggle to make ends meet and keep her children fed and clothed.

Her mother working small jobs saw her mostly away from the house. As a result, their family became estranged, depriving Rodman of the love he needed. Talking to NBA on ESPN, The Chicago Bulls legend expressed his desire to be loved. He also opened up about his tough relationship with his mother.

Dennis Rodman gets candid about his relationship with his mother

Talking with NBA on ESPN about his “30 for 30″ Rodman: For Better or Worse” documentary, Rodman couldn’t help but get teary-eyed.

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The interviewer highlighted that the player’s desire to be loved was the one thing that stood out the most when watching the documentary. Rodman visibly became emotional and said that the only thing people will take away from this documentary is that he has always wanted to be loved. He stated that he did not desire any money or fame, but rather someone to care for him.

Rodman then remarked that this had been his life story, growing up without a father and maternal love.

“That’s what my whole life story’s about…more like didn’t have a father, didn’t really have a mother,” said the five-time NBA champion. “She wasn’t really attentive to us like that and never said that she loved us or anything like that.”

The Bulls legend then claimed that a lot of people would understand the situation he was in.

“I think a lot of people in the world that lived in that period of time would understand what I’m talking about,” said Rodman. “It’s very difficult when you have a mother that works three-four jobs and you never see her and all you do is get yelled at and never have anyone to hug you,” he added.

Dennis Rodman clearly went through countless trials and tribulations growing up. He expresses that he grew up without a father, but he also never felt loved by her mother. Regardless, the NBA Hall of Famer persevered and built himself a successful career.

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