Michael Jordan and Bulls responsible for Dennis Rodman going off the rails and leading WILD life, claims NBA GOAT’s rival Isiah Thomas

When Zeke stood up for Rodman: Dennis Rodman's journey from the 'Bad Boy' Pistons to the wild Chicago Bulls era.

Michael Jordan and Bulls responsible for Dennis Rodman going off the rails and leading WILD life, claims NBA GOAT’s rival Isiah Thomas

Isiah Thomas and Dennis Rodman (Credits: ESPN)

One of the most dominating rebounders in basketball history is Dennis Rodman. While no other NBA player during his career came close to having that level of off-court presence and fame, his off-the-court lifestyle was known for being extravagant. Isiah Thomas asserts that the atmosphere within the Chicago Bulls organisation had an impact on ‘The Worm’s’ more laid-back attitude.

Zeke emphasised how Rodman’s professionalism peaked while he was playing for the Detroit Pistons because the organisation was renowned for its strong professional standards during his appearance on “NBA Open Court” to support his claim.

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During the interview, Thomas stated, “I thought Chicago turned Rodman out. I know you guys turned him out because, you know, we had such a great structure in terms of professionalism, the way we carried ourselves, we wore suits and ties to the games. Everything we did, we upgraded our travel, hotels, and everything. We wanted everything to be great for our players, And I thought when he got to Chicago, I mean, y’all were a party team, y’all were drinking, going to Vegas before the game, hanging out with Madonna, and everything. What happened to Rodman? That’s what we all ask. Now you got him in North Korea.”

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In addition to playing together on NBA courts for seven seasons, Rodman and Thomas were instrumental in the ‘Bad Boy’ Pistons’ two championship runs. It’s safe to assume that the two athletes’ on-court collaboration created a tight and powerful friendship.

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The controversial exchange: Isiah Thomas defends Dennis Rodman’s remarks about Larry Bird’s MVPs

They were so close that when Dennis Rodman destroyed Larry Bird by saying that he only won “three MVPs” because he was “white,” Isiah Thomas defended his colleagues’ remarks by saying that if Bird had been black, he would have been just another person.

Isiah Thomas and Dennis Rodman
Isiah Thomas and Dennis Rodman (Credits: ESPN)

Isiah was put in the hot seat by being called a racist when Rodman could have easily been the subject of all media attention. The 12-time All-Star lost no time in making a sincere apology in response to the harsh criticism. The seven-time Rebound Champ freely acknowledged how Zeke protected him from all the negative publicity while Thomas’ reputation took a hit.

Larry Bird understood the context of the Pistons’ duo’s cruel and incorrect words despite the fact that the Boston Celtics had defeated Detroit in a thrilling seven-game Eastern Conference Finals that year. It was a very turbulent series of events in retrospect; Thomas’ choice to stand up for Rodman was not only brave, but the fact that he recognized Rodman’s inexperience and gladly went into the fire says a lot about the kind of leader he was. If that hadn’t been the case, Dennis might have been kicked out of the league.

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