The NBA 75 showcased some memorable scenes for the hoop fans last year in Cleveland. While modern NBA superstars like Damian Lillard were overwhelmed by legends like Michael Jordan, Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, etc., his interaction with Dennis Rodman was a lot different from what he expected. He recently?revealed what it was to be around the Chicago Bulls icon.
Lillard was awestruck when he met all the retired veterans. However, his portrayal of Dennis Rodman stands alone.
Dennis Rodman “didn’t care” during the memorable ceremony
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It’s a known fact that Rodman is a vibrant character. The 5x NBA champion is known for his unique modifications like hair coloring, nose rings, etc. However, Rodman was a tough nut to crack when it came to understanding him. Many stars who came to the NBA 75 faced the same problem when they met Rodman in person. Nobody could understand what was going on in the 2x DPOY’s mind.
Lillard spoke about this on the Knuckleheads podcast. The 33-year-old shared, “The only person who just was kind of like, didn’t have a jacket on, didn’t have his 75 jacket on, didn’t really care was Dennis Rodman… He just didn’t care. They was trying, ‘Put your jacket on’… he just did not care.”
Reports revealed that Rodman was not cooperating with the NBA crew on the special day. Even after repeatedly requesting him to wear a jacket, Rodman did not bother. In a clip from the ceremony, the Bulls legend threw the jacket down before he went on to click a few pictures with modern superstars like Stephen Curry, Chris Paul, and LeBron James.?
Moreover, a few legends did not like Rodman’s attitude about homecoming.?
Shaquille O’Neal was annoyed by Dennis Rodman’s behavior
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Los Angeles Lakers icon Shaquille O’Neal was all over the event, thanking many of his former rivals and having a good chat. However, one thing he disliked was Rodman’s behavior. He shared in his podcast,?“My mother doesn?t allow that. I represent Dr. Lucille O?Neal. I don?t represent myself. I represent my momma and the other women in my life, Taahirah, Amirah, and Me?arah, I represent them.”
He added,?“I?m going to be silly and do my stuff. But when it comes time to be professional, I will always be professional.”?Many like Shaq did not entertain Rodman’s behavior. However, only the 2000 MVP had the courage to speak about it without any hesitation.?
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Watch this story: “How Michael Jordan comparison hampered multiple MVPs for LeBron James? Gilbert Arenas explains”
What are your thoughts on Lillard’s portrayal of Rodman? Does it sound apt? Share your take on the comments below.?