Phil Jackson is widely regarded as one of the NBA’s all-time great coaches, having led the Chicago Bulls to dominance in the 1990s and the Los Angeles Lakers to multiple titles in the 2000s. Coaching legends like Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman came with its own set of challenges, especially when it came to managing strong personalities.
Among the most talked-about figures during Jackson’s tenure with the Bulls was Rodman. Known for his eccentric behavior and outspoken personality, Rodman made headlines both on and off the court. His unique way of expressing himself often clashed with NBA norms, presenting a challenge Jackson had to navigate when Rodman joined the team.
Reflecting on that period, Jackson revealed an unexpected insight about Rodman‘s arrival in Chicago. Despite Rodman’s stellar performances with the Detroit Pistons and San Antonio Spurs, his behavior raised concerns at the time.
In the 1997 documentary Reflections of a Dynasty, which featured interviews with Jordan and Pippen, Jackson shared that ahead of the 1995–96 season, he compiled a secret list of seven players he believed could help the Bulls win another championship, Rodman included.
“I put down on paper seven guys who I thought could help us out. He (Rodman) was the seventh at the bottom of that list,” Jackson recalled in 1997, reflecting on one of the most dominant dynasties in NBA history.
Why Jackson put Rodman last on his list
Rodman’s arrival in Chicago generated mixed reactions among fans. Known as much for his controversial behavior as his on-court talent, Rodman carried a reputation that gave many, Jackson included, reason for pause.
“It had nothing to do with his talent,” Jackson clarified, speaking about the list he compiled to strengthen the Bulls ahead of the 1995-96 season. “I didn’t have anything against Dennis. It was simply because of what he brings with him.” Despite those concerns, Jackson would later call Rodman’s signing one of the best decisions of his Bulls tenure.
Jackson also admitted that the trade only went through because it was kept quiet at first. He believed Jordan and Pippen might have opposed it if consulted early. “We would have never made the move without checking first with Scottie [Pippen] and Michael [Jordan],” he said.
How Rodman adjusted to the Bulls
With superstars like Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen already leading the team, Rodman’s integration into the locker room was no small feat. But Jackson understood what was needed.
“We could handle a distraction and a personality like Dennis,” he said. Rodman proved his value quickly, leading the team with 14.9 rebounds per game in his first season in Chicago.
Rodman’s impact on the Bulls
In just three seasons with the Bulls, Rodman left a lasting legacy. He led the team, and the league, in rebounding during each of his three years in Chicago: 1995-96: 14.9 RPG; 1996-97: 16.7 RPG; and 1997-98: 15.0 RPG.
Rodman played a crucial role in Chicago’s second three-peat, helping the Bulls win NBA titles in 1996, 1997, and 1998. His defensive presence and dominance on the boards were instrumental to the team’s success.