In an era dominated by legendary talents, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> emerged as one of the most influential figures in the league’s modern history. The seasoned Lakers star consistently features in the GOAT debate, frequently compared to Michael Jordan as the central figures in this storied conversation. However, in a surprising twist, a fellow four-time <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> champion recently ranked him below another iconic league figure in the ongoing discussion.



“With all respect to LeBron and Kobe and many other players that you can argue as the GOAT. But I’ve seen <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kobe-bryant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe Bryant</a> when Shaq will foul out, got in foul trouble. I thought I was looking at Michael Jordan, how he took over games, and led us to victory many times when Shaq was on the bench with foul trouble and what have you. But I would say, MJ 1 and Kobe 1-A,” Horace Grant said, via Gimme The Hot Sauce Podcast.



Horace’s statements, though surprising to some, resonate well when considering Kobe Bryant’s impact on the NBA since the early 2000s. Kobe emerged as a dominant force, particularly on the Los Angeles Lakers, leading the team to five championships. His career accolades include an MVP and a Finals MVP. Even Michael Jordan admitted in an NBA 2K interview that Kobe Bryant could outplay him in a one-on-one matchup, citing Kobe’s ability to replicate his moves.



Despite this, many fans contest LeBron James’ absence from Grant’s rankings due to his significant career impact. While Kobe boasts one more championship, the Lakers’ veteran has profoundly dominated the league, securing four MVP awards and four Finals MVP awards. Additionally, he holds the all-time record for most points scored in league history, which underscores his tremendous influence. Nonetheless, his spot in the GOAT debate is still questioned by many.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="559" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250907_BUS_487061_kobe-bryant-1024x559_84ccdc4d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=559" alt="Lakers legend Kobe Bryant" class="wp-image-376701" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Kobe Bryant, Los Angeles Lakers.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Kobe Bryant’s place in the GOAT debate continues to be backed by many former NBA players</h2>



Not only Horace Grant but also other former NBA players have supported Kobe’s legacy in the GOAT debate. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shaquille-oneal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shaquille O’Neal</a>, one of his closest teammates, has decided to back the Lakers legend. In a Big Podcast episode, he stated that it is unfair to focus this conversation solely on Jordan and LeBron, leaving Bryant out of the discussion as he dominated at a level non easily reached by many, which earns him a rightful spot in the Top 3.


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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dennis Rodman</a> has also stepped up in defense of Bryant’s place in league history. During a live stream with influencer N3on, the Hall of Famer remarked, “We know who that is, Jordan all day long. … People forgot about that one guy. That one guy, that’s called Kobe Bryant. People forget about him. They talk about everybody else. They don’t talk about Kobe for some reason.”



While Kobe Bryant might not universally hold the title of NBA’s GOAT, significant endorsements, bolstered by an illustrious career, affirm his place among the game’s elite. Thus, Horace Grant’s inclusion of Bryant alongside Jordan as the greatest should not seem far-fetched. It’s not a slight against LeBron, but rather a testament to Kobe’s extraordinary impact on the sport.

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The conversation about the NBA’s greatest of all time usually boils down to two players: Michael Jordan and LeBron James. The arguments vary depending on the lens of the debate, and the answer often shifts with the criteria used. But recently, one former <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-bulls">Chicago Bulls</a> teammate decided to weigh in once again.



Dennis Rodman has always been one of the NBA’s most unpredictable voices, and he proved that again during a live stream with popular creator NEON. Asked about the never-ending GOAT debate, Rodman doubled down on his belief that Michael Jordan is the greatest ever — and he did so with one of his trademark eccentric analogies.



“Michael Jordan was too sexy, man, when he had the ball or something like that,” Rodman said. “I mean, LeBron is like a go****n dump truck. Michael Jordan sits there dancing like barista coffee. What? And he just keeps going, making it all look so easy.”



The point was clear enough, even if the metaphor wasn’t. Jordan’s game was smooth, graceful, and artistic. He glided through defenders, pulled off moves that seemed effortless, and scored with an elegance that made “Air Jordan” one of the most fitting nicknames in sports.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">“Michael Jordan &amp; LeBron at their prime: Michael Jordan was too sexy; when he had the bald head. LeBron’s like a guy with a dump truck.” – Dennis Rodman (h/t <a href="https://twitter.com/CourtsideBuzzX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CourtsideBuzzX</a> ) <a href="https://t.co/Tf5ft3MU2v">pic.twitter.com/Tf5ft3MU2v</a>— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheDunkCentral/status/1959696467708567697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2025</a></blockquote></div>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a>, by contrast, has always relied more on raw power. At 6-foot-9 and 260 pounds, he is a physical anomaly — a freight train in transition who bulldozes his way to the rim and finishes through contact. For more than two decades, defenders have known what was coming, yet stopping him has remained close to impossible.


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Rodman’s comparison may sound harsh, but it does not dismiss LeBron’s greatness. The same “truck” has averaged at least 25 points in 20 consecutive seasons, is preparing for his 23rd year in the league, and holds the title of the NBA’s all-time leading scorer with more than 40,000 points — a total that surpasses 50,000 when including the playoffs.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Jordan</a>, on the other hand, may be the most graceful player in basketball history. His footwork, mid-range mastery, and acrobatic finishing gave the sport a kind of artistry rarely seen before or since. Every movement felt fluid, precise, and impossible to replicate.



LeBron, meanwhile, overwhelms with a different formula: size, speed, and brute force packaged together in a way basketball had never witnessed in a wing player. He may not have Jordan’s elegance, but his dominance is undeniable. In the end, Rodman’s wild metaphors simply highlight the contrast between two legends who have defined different eras of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a>.

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Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NBA history, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Michael Jordan</a> led the Chicago Bulls to six championships during the 1990s, forming an iconic duo with Scottie Pippen. But according to Hall of Famer and Boston Celtics great Robert Parish, Jordan’s success wouldn’t have happened without another crucial figure.



The Bulls captured six titles in eight years, earning two separate three-peats between 1991–93 and 1996–98. While <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/scottie-pippen">Pippen</a> was essential to those runs, Parish credits Dennis Rodman as the difference-maker behind Chicago’s dominance.



“Let’s not forget. Chicago wouldn’t have won s— without <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman">Dennis Rodman</a>. I don’t care how good Michael and Scottie Pippen were, they wouldn’t have won s— without Dennis Rodman,” Parish said during an appearance on The Coach JB Show with Big Smitty. “Because Luc Longley, and that other m—, I can’t think of the other center’s name, they was just in the way”.



“If it was not for Dennis Rodman, defense and rebounding, which we all know wins games, wins championships—defensive rebounding, and keeping turnovers in check—Chicago wasn’t winning s— without Dennis Rodman,” he continued.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250626_BUS_427423_dennis-rodman-1024x576_55c7e7f9.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-320194" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dennis Rodman of the Chicago Bulls argues with an official during a playoff game against the Miami Heat. (Andy Lyons /Allsport/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



Before joining the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-bulls">Bulls</a>, Rodman was a key part of the Detroit Pistons‘ “Bad Boys” era alongside Isiah Thomas, helping the team win back-to-back NBA titles in 1989 and 1990—eliminating Jordan and the Bulls along the way.


 

 

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<h2>Rodman’s tenure with the Bulls</h2>



Rodman arrived in Chicago for the 1995–96 season, and his impact was immediate. The Bulls jumped from a 47–35 record to an <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a>-best 72–10, a mark that stood until the 2015–16 Golden State Warriors surpassed it.



A two-time Defensive Player of the Year (1989–90, 1990–91), Rodman brought exactly what the Bulls needed on defense following Jordan’s return from retirement, that led Chicago to their second three-peat. 



He led the NBA in rebounding for seven consecutive seasons and routinely battled the league’s most dominant big men, including Shaquille O’Neal, Karl Malone, Alonzo Mourning, and Charles Barkley.

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The spotlight was always on Michael Jordan during the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-bulls">Chicago Bulls</a>‘ magical dynasty, but without Scottie Pippen, none of it would have been possible. As Jordan’s indispensable counterpart, Pippen carved out his own legacy—one worthy of enshrinement in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. And when it came time to select someone to present him for that honor, Pippen chose the person who defined his career—not Dennis Rodman, but Jordan himself.



Scottie Pippen and Michael Jordan’s relationship has been notoriously turbulent in recent years. The former Bulls stars have exchanged barbs in public, fueling a feud that continues to captivate fans and pundits alike. Still, their complicated history doesn’t erase the bond they once shared during the franchise’s golden era. At least back in 2010, the respect was mutual—and public.



That year, Pippen was inducted into the Hall of Fame and selected Jordan, who had been inducted the year prior, to formally present him. The gesture reflected the significance of their shared journey and was a continuation of a Hall of Fame tradition in which past legends present new inductees. It was a moment of reverence, not rivalry—fitting for a duo that won six <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> titles together.



“I can’t think of a better person to do it,” Pippen said at the time, via ESPN. “Michael is someone I shared my career with, accomplishing most of what I have accomplished thus far.” Their paths were intertwined, and for one evening in Springfield, Massachusetts, the narrative turned from division to tribute.



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="377110" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250621_BUS_423366_Michael-Jordan-1_458d1221.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Michael Jordan" class="wp-image-377110" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/15124222/Michael-Jordan-1.jpg 1920w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/15124222/Michael-Jordan-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/15124222/Michael-Jordan-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/15124222/Michael-Jordan-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/15124222/Michael-Jordan-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/15124222/Michael-Jordan-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/15124222/Michael-Jordan-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/15124222/Michael-Jordan-1-250x140.jpg 250w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption> Michael Jordan, NBA Hall of Famer and co-owner of 23XI Racing walks the grid prior to the NASCAR Cup Series Straight Talk Wireless 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway.</figcaption></figure>
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<h2>Pippen’s heartfelt words for Jordan</h2>



Despite the tension that has developed in recent years, Pippen’s speech that night revealed the deep respect he once held for <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Jordan</a>. Their legacy wasn’t just about championships and accolades. It was about two competitors pushing each other to greatness and forming one of the most iconic partnerships in NBA history.


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“Michael was a great teammate, teacher, and admirer,” Pippen said during his speech. “I’m excited to have an opportunity to be the first person that he has presented into the Hall of Fame. I figure if anyone deserves to be on the stage with me, it’s him.”



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/scottie-pippen">Pippen</a> continued, “What an honor it is for me as a basketball player to have the all-time great presenting me here tonight. It was so valuable to me as a player to see someone who had the same desire, determination, passion, and love for the game.” He concluded his remarks with a message that still resonates with Bulls fans. “MJ, you have touched so many people’s lives, but none like mine. Thank you for being the best teammate. I will always cherish that experience and our relationship forever.”



<h2>Why not Dennis Rodman?</h2>



While Pippen and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman">Rodman</a> shared three championships with the Bulls, their relationship was more functional than sentimental. Before teaming up in Chicago, they had been fierce rivals—most notably during Rodman’s time with the Detroit Pistons. Pippen wasn’t initially thrilled when the Bulls acquired the controversial forward, but he eventually came to respect Rodman’s value on the court.



Rodman’s relentless defense and rebounding were crucial to the Bulls’ second three-peat, but the emotional connection between Pippen and Jordan was on another level. For Pippen, the Hall of Fame moment was personal, not just professional. And in that context, there was no other choice. It had to be Jordan.

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From 1996 to 1998, the Chicago Bulls solidified their place as one of the most iconic teams in NBA history. With superstars <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Jordan</a>, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman leading the charge, the Bulls achieved a historic three-peat, further etching their legacy in the annals of basketball greatness. Amidst this constellation of talent, Ron Harper played an instrumental role as the starting point guard. His career didn’t plateau with the Bulls’ success; Harper continued to shine with the Los Angeles Lakers, partnering with legends Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant.



Over his illustrious career, Harper collected five NBA Championship rings, three with the Bulls and two more with the Lakers, granting him the rare privilege of having competed alongside some of the greatest players in NBA history like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kobe-bryant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kobe</a> or O’Neal. It’s this unique perspective that empowers him to deliver insights into discussions surrounding the all-time greats.



Recently, Harper opted not to join the perennial “Greatest of All Time” (GOAT) debate. Instead, he shared his personal starting five drawn from the array of Hall-of-Fame-caliber teammates, like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/scottie-pippen" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pippen</a> or Rodman, he played with during his 15-year NBA career. During a recent conversation with The Makeshift Project on Instagram, Harper revealed his all-time greatest teammates lineup.



Given his illustrious career and the iconic figures he shared the court with, determining his all-time starting five might seem straightforward. Unsurprisingly, the lineup boasts some of basketball’s brightest stars, like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman">Rodman</a> or O’Neal, highlighting Harper’s legendary cohorts.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Happy Birthday to fellow Miami alum and Cavs legend Ron Harper. <a href="https://t.co/HJerw5H3r3">pic.twitter.com/HJerw5H3r3</a>— McNeil (@Reflog_18) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reflog_18/status/1616395351669219328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2023</a></blockquote></div> 



All-time teammate starting five:



<ul><li>Point Guard (PG): Scottie Pippen</li><li>Shooting Guard (SG): Kobe Bryant</li><li>Small Forward (SF): Michael Jordan</li><li>Power Forward (PF): Dennis Rodman</li><li>Center (C): <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/shaquille-oneal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shaquille O’Neal</a></li></ul>


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<h2>Harper’s choice for Sixth Man: Toni Kukoc</h2>



When asked about his choice for the sixth man in an all-time starting lineup, Harper didn’t hesitate to highlight a name less frequently mentioned by former players but worthy of Hall of Fame recognition: Toni Kukoc.



Notably, Kukoc was awarded the Sixth Man of the Year during the 1995-1996 season as part of the Chicago Bulls’ championship team. Sporting the number 7 jersey, the Croatian standout made history with his remarkable contributions to the Bulls’ three-peat triumphs from 1996 to 1998. Although he started in only 22 of the 45 playoff games during those years, his impact was crucial to securing the championship titles.



<h2>Harper’s head coach selection: Phil Jackson</h2>



Reflecting on his illustrious career with the Bulls, achieving a three-peat, and subsequent success with the Lakers, securing two consecutive titles, Harper confidently chose Phil Jackson as the head coach for his dream team.



Jackson’s unparalleled influence in the NBA has solidified his reputation, with countless former players attesting to his standing as the greatest coach in NBA history.



<div class="ck-instagram"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKXWpZCNyiR/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style="background:#FFF;border:0;border-radius:3px;margin: 1px;max-width:540px;min-width:326px;padding:0;width:99.375%;width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px);width:calc(100% - 2px)"><div style="padding:16px"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKXWpZCNyiR/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="background:#FFFFFF;line-height:0;padding:0 0;text-align:center;text-decoration:none;width:100%" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> <div style="flex-direction: row;align-items: center"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 50%;flex-grow: 0;height: 40px;margin-right: 14px;width: 40px"></div> <div style="flex-direction: column;flex-grow: 1;justify-content: center"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;margin-bottom: 6px;width: 100px"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;width: 60px"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0"></div> <div style="height:50px;margin:0 auto 12px;width:50px"></div><div style="padding-top: 8px"> <div style="color:#3897f0;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-style:normal;font-weight:550;line-height:18px">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0"></div> <div style="flex-direction: row;margin-bottom: 14px;align-items: center"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 50%;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px;flex-grow: 0;margin-right: 14px;margin-left: 2px"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 50%;height: 12.5px;width: 12.5px"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 50%;flex-grow: 0;height: 20px;width: 20px"></div> <div style="width: 0;height: 0;border-top: 2px solid transparent;border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4;border-bottom: 2px solid transparent"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto"> <div style="width: 0px;border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4;border-right: 8px solid transparent"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;flex-grow: 0;height: 12px;width: 16px"></div> <div style="width: 0;height: 0;border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4;border-left: 8px solid transparent"></div></div></div> <div style="flex-direction: column;flex-grow: 1;justify-content: center;margin-bottom: 24px"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;margin-bottom: 6px;width: 224px"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4;border-radius: 4px;flex-grow: 0;height: 14px;width: 144px"></div></div></a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKXWpZCNyiR/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="color:#c9c8cd;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;font-size:14px;font-style:normal;font-weight:normal;line-height:17px;text-decoration:none" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by The Makeshift Project (@themakeshiftproject)</a></div></blockquote></div>

5x NBA champion Ron Harper reveals his all-time starting five, sixth man, and head coach

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5x NBA champion Ron Harper reveals his all-time starting five, sixth man, and head coach - Bolavip US

Ron Harper reveals his all-time starting five, sixth man, and head coach

Isiah Thomas, the Hall of Fame point guard and iconic leader of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/detroit-pistons">Detroit Pistons</a>‘ “Bad Boys” era, remains one of the most revered competitors in NBA history. A two-time champion and 12-time All-Star, Thomas helped redefine what it meant to be a floor general, leading with grit, intelligence, and unwavering toughness. Recently, the legendary guard opened up about the toughest defenders he faced during his decorated career.



In a 2023 interview, Thomas named his top three defenders of all time, including two former Chicago Bulls stars and one of the greatest two-way centers in league history. While he claimed he wasn’t ranking them, Thomas has previously gone on record stating that Scottie Pippen tops his list as the best defender in NBA history, with Dennis Rodman coming in second.



“As a defender, he doesn’t get enough credit,” Thomas said on the ALL THE SMOKE podcast. “When we talk about the greatest and best defenders that have ever played in the NBA, Chicago had two of them — Rodman and Scottie Pippen.”



“Scottie was different,” Thomas continued. “At his best, I may have to say that he and Rodman were the one-two best defenders to ever play the game. I want to give him his respect and his props. And then, as a facilitator, Scottie — he was the real deal.”



<figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped">
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" data-id="408135" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250531_BUS_408133_GettyImages-120986062-1_3135e5d1.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="rodman-pippen-bulls-legend" class="wp-image-408135" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/30215220/GettyImages-120986062-1.jpg 1920w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/30215220/GettyImages-120986062-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/30215220/GettyImages-120986062-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/30215220/GettyImages-120986062-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/30215220/GettyImages-120986062-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/30215220/GettyImages-120986062-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/30215220/GettyImages-120986062-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/30215220/GettyImages-120986062-1-250x140.jpg 250w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Dennis Rodman poses with Scotty Pippen during the Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony at Symphony Hall </figcaption></figure>
</figure>



<h2>Thomas vs Pippen: A storied rivalry</h2>



The rivalry between <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/isiah-thomas">Isiah Thomas</a> and Scottie Pippen took shape in the late 1980s, when the Detroit Pistons and Chicago Bulls became perennial Eastern Conference contenders. As the fiery leader of the Pistons, Thomas personified the physical, confrontational style of basketball that defined the era and often frustrated the rising Bulls, led by Michael Jordan and supported by a maturing Pippen.


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Those postseason battles were nothing short of legendary. Detroit’s “Jordan Rules” didn’t just target Jordan—they also tested Pippen’s resilience. The Bulls forward, still emerging as a star, took repeated hits from Detroit’s bruising defense, both physically and psychologically. Thomas, never shy in front of a mic, frequently questioned Pippen’s toughness and leadership compared to Jordan, fueling a personal and professional feud that has lingered long after their careers ended.



<h2>Rodman’s complex connection with Thomas</h2>



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman">Dennis Rodman</a>’s relationship with Thomas was more layered. Originally teammates on the Pistons, the two helped shape Detroit’s identity as the NBA’s most feared defensive unit. Rodman’s energy, versatility, and defensive prowess complemented Thomas’s leadership during their back-to-back title runs in 1989 and 1990.



However, Rodman’s eventual move to the Bulls in the mid-1990s complicated their legacy. By joining Chicago — the very franchise Detroit had built its identity around defeating — Rodman became part of the dynasty the Pistons once stood against. The dynamic shifted, and while mutual respect remained, the symbolism of Rodman wearing a Bulls jersey stung for many Pistons loyalists, including Thomas.



<h2>More than a rivalry — a cultural divide</h2>



Despite moments of mutual respect among all three players, personal pride and competitive fire have long fueled the tension between Thomas, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/scottie-pippen">Pippen</a>, and Rodman. For Thomas, the Pistons’ legacy — one forged in sweat, defense, and defiance — is too often overlooked in favor of the flashier narratives surrounding the Bulls dynasty. He continues to be a vocal advocate for what Detroit represented during its golden years.


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Their rivalry was more than physical — it was deeply cultural and symbolic. It wasn’t just about winning games; it was about defining eras, identities, and ultimately, greatness. And for Isiah Thomas, those matchups — and those defenders — are etched into <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> history with the intensity they brought to every possession.

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Detroit Pistons legend Isiah Thomas names the toughest defenders he has ever faced - Bolavip US

Within the dominant Chicago Bulls team of the 1990s, several players stood out. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Jordan</a> and Scottie Pippen led the charge. However, as important as the offense looked, the defense played an equally crucial role. Because of that, Dennis Rodman became a key pillar in Phil Jackson’s roster. His defensive intensity and rebounding gave the Bulls a physical edge. Although defense defined <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rodman</a>‘s reputation, Jordan later revealed that he had another side that few mention.



“If you look at Dennis (Rodman) and the way he shoots and carries himself on the offensive end, he has fundamentals. He just chooses not to use them. If Orlando feels Dennis’ offense is not going to hurt them, great. We’ll just keep pushing him to give us that offensive support,” Jordan said in 1996, via the Chicago Tribune.



Although Dennis Rodman was never known for his scoring, his impact on the game went far beyond the box score. In the 1996 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> Eastern Conference Finals, he stepped up offensively and became the Bulls’ third-leading scorer. He averaged 11.6 points per game during the series. Moreover, he shot an efficient 53.3 percent from the field. He also converted 60.9 percent of his free throws, which marked a solid improvement for him.



Not only did Michael Jordan recognize his offensive talent, but Scottie Pippen also gave him credit without hesitation. “When he’s a scorer, and he’s effective, you have to keep an eye on him…(Opponents) aren’t even looking for Dennis to score. It’s easier for us to find him around the basket when you know he’s conscious of wanting to score. When he’s not looking to score, you’re kind of iffy about throwing the ball to him,” affirmed Pippen in 1997, via The Chicago Tribune.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250527_BUS_405653_dennis-rodman-1-1024x576_07b3e6d6.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-324450" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29181324/dennis-rodman-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29181324/dennis-rodman-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29181324/dennis-rodman-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29181324/dennis-rodman-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29181324/dennis-rodman-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29181324/dennis-rodman-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29181324/dennis-rodman-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/29181324/dennis-rodman-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dennis Rodman #91 of the Chicago Bulls stands on the court at the United Center in Chicago.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Dennis Rodman opens up about his relationship with Michael Jordan during the Bulls era</h2>



It is no secret that Dennis Rodman and Michael Jordan have completely different personalities. Rodman is loud, eccentric, and unpredictable. Jordan, on the other hand, is quiet, focused, and disciplined. In 2023, Rodman admitted he never spoke off the court with Michael or Scottie Pippen. He explained that the only thing that mattered to him was showing up, doing his job, and winning. That was his only focus.


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Still, Jordan had no problem with Rodman as a teammate. In a 1996 interview, he addressed Rodman’s behavior. “He’s gonna go wacko every now and then. We’ve come to live with that. We’ve come to accept that. But you can’t find another player on the basketball court that works just as hard as Dennis Rodman. Gives 110%, dives at loose balls even if he can’t get them. That’s Dennis Rodman. So I don’t have a problem with Dennis, and I don’t think Phil does.”



Although their personalities clashed, they made it work. Together, they built one of the most dominant teams of the era. More importantly, they did not need a personal bond to win. Their shared obsession with victory kept them aligned. Because of that, they led the Bulls to three straight championships. When it counted most, they delivered. And they did it without needing to speak off the court.

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LeBron James</a> has cemented his legacy over 22 NBA seasons. In 2023, he broke Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time scoring record. He also made a lasting impact with every franchise he played for. However, former NBA star Dennis Rodman remains unconvinced by LeBron’s greatness. In an interview, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rodman</a> compared James’ scoring ability to Michael Jordan’s, highlighting what he sees as a clear gap between the two.



“It’s very easy when they define greatness…<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Michael Jordan</a> did it when it was tough. What did he do? He led the league in scoring 10 years. That was hard back then, now it’s easy,” Rodman said in 2017, via UPI. The Bulls legend led the league in scoring during one of the most competitive eras in NBA history. By contrast, LeBron has topped the scoring charts just once, in the 2007-08 season.



Despite not leading the league in scoring every year, he holds the all-time scoring record with 42,184 points. He combines elite scoring efficiency with unmatched durability and physical dominance. Beyond points, he impacts the game through rebounds, assists, and leadership. Even at age 40, he remains one of the league’s most complete and influential players.



Not everything is criticism, as Dennis Rodman acknowledged something LeBron achieved that Michael Jordan did not. “You know what, LeBron is doing one thing that I always said that Michael Jordan never did…Never rested. He played every game. He played every game. LeBron has the position to do this now because they need him. The league needs him and that’s why he’s doing all this crazy,” affirmed Rodman on Reiter Than You show.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="559" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250527_BUS_405604_michael-jordan-LeBron-1024x559_560e92ed.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=559" alt="LeBron James and Michael Jordan" class="wp-image-405609" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26212343/michael-jordan-LeBron-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26212343/michael-jordan-LeBron-300x164.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26212343/michael-jordan-LeBron-768x419.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26212343/michael-jordan-LeBron-1536x838.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26212343/michael-jordan-LeBron.jpg 1980w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan and Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Who could stop LeBron James if he had played in the 1990s? Dennis Rodman gives an unfiltered answer</h2>



Defending in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> has become much tougher in recent years. Changes to league rules have played a major role. Several former players, including Shaquille O’Neal, share this belief. They argue that defenders can no longer use physicality without risking a foul. As a result, defense has shifted from physicality to tactics. Players now rely more on positioning, timing, and anticipation.


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This shift has also fueled comparisons between eras. In a 2019 interview with Overtime, Dennis Rodman was asked how LeBron James would fare in his era. His answer was even more direct and brutally honest.



“Do you know who can lock up LeBron? Me, Mike and Scottie could. Scottie Pippen could shut his f******g a** down quick before I get to him. LeBron is so easy to play. He is so f****g easy to play. He doesn’t have any moves. His game is so simple, he is just big. The only thing he has is that he is 6’8″ and 260 pounds, and I’ve guarded guys bigger than him,” Rodman said.

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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/phil-jackson" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Phil Jackson</a> 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 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-bulls" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bulls</a> 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 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rodman</a>‘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.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250519_BUS_400812_Phil-Jackson-and-Dennis-Rodman-1024x576_ba000e36.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Phil Jackson and Dennis Rodman" class="wp-image-400845" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/19123610/Phil-Jackson-and-Dennis-Rodman-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/19123610/Phil-Jackson-and-Dennis-Rodman-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/19123610/Phil-Jackson-and-Dennis-Rodman-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/19123610/Phil-Jackson-and-Dennis-Rodman-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/19123610/Phil-Jackson-and-Dennis-Rodman-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/19123610/Phil-Jackson-and-Dennis-Rodman-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/19123610/Phil-Jackson-and-Dennis-Rodman-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/19123610/Phil-Jackson-and-Dennis-Rodman.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dennis Rodman and Phil Jackson hug during the Basketball Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony at Symphony Hall on August 12, 2011 in Springfield, Massachusetts.</figcaption></figure>



“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 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> history.


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<h2>Why Jackson put Rodman last on his list</h2>



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.



<h2>How Rodman adjusted to the Bulls</h2>



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.



<h2>Rodman’s impact on the Bulls</h2>



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.

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NBA legend Phil Jackson shares unexpected insight on Dennis Rodman’s arrival to the Chicago Bulls - Bolavip US

NBA legend Phil Jackson shares unexpected insight on Dennis Rodman’s arrival to the Chicago Bulls

The NBA has evolved dramatically over the years, from rule changes to shifts in playing styles across different eras. This has sparked debates about whether certain players could excel in different time periods. One player often at the center of this conversation is the Los Angeles Lakers star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lebron-james">LeBron James</a>. However, former Chicago Bulls standout Dennis Rodman once claimed that LeBron wouldn’t have been skilled enough to compete in the 1990s.



During a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, James reflected on how players from previous eras have downplayed his ability to succeed in their time. Confident in his skills, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/los-angeles-lakers">Lakers</a> star dismissed the criticism and asserted his versatility as a player.



“Come on… I would be able to play in any era,” James stated. “It’s funny, you hear some of the older guys like, ‘LeBron James couldn’t play in this era.’ I think I saw Dennis Rodman say that once. He was like, ‘LeBron James ain’t skilled enough. Not big enough, not strong enough.’ I’m like, ‘Okay’”.



LeBron, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a>‘s all-time leading scorer, is well-known for using his physical attributes—size, speed, and strength—to dominate the court. Considering the physicality that defined Rodman’s prime era with the Chicago Bulls, James made it clear that he would have excelled in any generation.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250327_BUS_365336_lebron-james-73-1024x576_ce4744f0.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-365340" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/27184134/lebron-james-73-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/27184134/lebron-james-73-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/27184134/lebron-james-73-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/27184134/lebron-james-73-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/27184134/lebron-james-73-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/27184134/lebron-james-73-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/27184134/lebron-james-73-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/27184134/lebron-james-73.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers drives against Pascal Siakam #43 of the Indiana Pacers during the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. (Michael Hickey/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What did Dennis Rodman say about LeBron?</h2>



In a 2019 interview with Overtime, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman">Rodman</a> confidently stated that he, Michael Jordan, and Scottie Pippen would have had no trouble shutting down LeBron on the court.


 

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“You know who could lock up LeBron? Me, Mike, and Scottie could. F— yeah. I would have locked his a— up. LeBron is so easy to play. He’s so f— easy to play, he don’t have any moves,” Rodman declared.



Rodman elaborated that James’ game is simplistic and reliant on a single move. “Only move he has is streak down the line,” he continued. “He ain’t got no moves. Where is he going? Where is he going that’s quick? Scottie Pippen would have shut his f— a— down quick before I get to him”.



The five-time NBA champion also dismissed James’ size as a factor, pointing out that he had faced bigger, stronger opponents throughout his career. “His game is too simple, he’s just big. I’m 260 and 6’8” or 6’9”, and that’s the only thing he’s got, pretty much. I played against guys 7-foot, 300, so it doesn’t really matter,” Rodman added.

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LeBron James gets real about Dennis Rodman's claim that he isn’t skilled enough for the NBA 90s - Bolavip US

One of the most controversial figures in the NBA during the 1990s was Chicago Bulls legend <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dennis Rodman</a>. Known for his unique playing style, Rodman also made waves with his outspoken personality and unpredictable behavior, both on and off the court. His candidness in discussing his career—particularly his time with the San Antonio Spurs, exemplified his willingness to speak his mind, no matter the topic.



Rodman’s career was often seen as tumultuous, with his wild partying and high-profile relationships frequently overshadowing his basketball achievements. However, when he stepped onto the court, he delivered consistently outstanding performances that played a key role in helping the Bulls, alongside Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, secure multiple championships for the franchise.



Rodman’s contributions to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> are undeniable, which is why when he reflects on his career, it’s worth paying attention. A notable example came during an interview with USA Today in 2019, where he shared his thoughts on his time with the Spurs back in 1993.



“It could have worked, but it didn’t. I’m thinking to myself, thank God we didn’t win a championship in San Antonio. I thank my lucky stars. Because if I had won a championship with San Antonio, I still would have been there,” Rodman said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="631" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250325_BUS_363300_michael_jordanx_scottie_pippenx_dennis_rodmanx_chicago_bullsjpg_242310155-1024x631_72e9e309.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=631" alt="" class="wp-image-163136" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/michael_jordanx_scottie_pippenx_dennis_rodmanx_chicago_bullsjpg_242310155-1024x631.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/michael_jordanx_scottie_pippenx_dennis_rodmanx_chicago_bullsjpg_242310155-300x185.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/michael_jordanx_scottie_pippenx_dennis_rodmanx_chicago_bullsjpg_242310155-768x474.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/michael_jordanx_scottie_pippenx_dennis_rodmanx_chicago_bullsjpg_242310155.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen &amp; Dennis Rodman. (Getty)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Rodman’s most memorable career moment</h2>



After struggling to find the right fit in the NBA following his time with the Chicago Bulls, Rodman reflected on his time with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/san-antonio-spurs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spurs</a>. Despite a rocky two-year stint with the franchise, Rodman considers his departure from the Spurs as a pivotal moment in his career.


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“I never would have made it to the Chicago Bulls, and Chicago wouldn’t have won those three championships. So, it’s a blessing in disguise that I left the Spurs,” Rodman shared.



<h2>Rodman’s journey: From San Antonio to championship glory</h2>



Rodman’s move from the Spurs marked the beginning of not only his best performances on the court but also his rise to fame for his controversial off-court persona. While winning championships with the Bulls, he proved that, despite his eccentric appearance, think wild hair and flamboyant style, being a true champion is about talent, not the public image.



<h2>Rodman opens up about his relationship with Gregg Popovich</h2>



Rodman also opened up about his strained relationship with Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich, revealing the tension that existed during his time in San Antonio. According to Rodman, Popovich’s disdain for him was rooted in their differences, with Rodman’s personality clashing with the team’s values at the time.



“He (Popovich) hated me, he hated me, he hated my guts because I wasn’t a Bible guy. They looked at me like I’m the devil. Then I started acting out again because they didn’t want me here,” Rodman said, reflecting on how he was perceived by the people in San Antonio.

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NBA legend Dennis Rodman shares bold take on his tenure with the San Antonio Spurs - Bolavip US

NBA legend Dennis Rodman shares bold take on his tenure with the San Antonio Spurs

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/steve-kerr">Steve Kerr</a> is no stranger to winning. With five NBA championships as a player with the Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs, and four more as head coach of the Golden State Warriors, his perspective carries significant weight.



Recently, after the Warriors’ win against the Milwaukee Bucks, Kerr praised <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/draymond-green">Draymond Green</a> as the best defender he’s ever seen in the league. “He’s one of the great defenders of all time, and he’s still doing it at a high level,” Kerr said in the postgame press conference.



But after Golden State’s recent 117-114 victory over the Toronto Raptors, Kerr went further. He revealed his full list of the three greatest defenders in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> history. “The top two are Scottie Pippen and Draymond,” Kerr stated confidently during the postgame presser.



“What I see with Draymond when he’s guarding the post is incredible, especially when you add his ability to guard the pick-and-roll all the way up to half court,” Kerr added. “<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman">Dennis Rodman</a> is a great comp for Draymond in that regard, and I definitely should have him in the conversation too”.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250321_BUS_360501_draymond-green-25-1024x576_13050a53.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-360629" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21152044/draymond-green-25-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21152044/draymond-green-25-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21152044/draymond-green-25-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21152044/draymond-green-25-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21152044/draymond-green-25-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21152044/draymond-green-25-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21152044/draymond-green-25-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21152044/draymond-green-25.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Draymond Green #23 blocks the shot of Giannis Antetokounmpo #34 during the first half at Chase Center. (Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



“Probably those three. Dennis, Scottie, and Draymond,” Kerr concluded. “You can see the parallels—the length, physicality, speed, versatility—but ultimately, it’s the brain. Dennis and Scottie were two of the smartest defenders I’ve ever been around, and Draymond is amazing in that regard”.


 

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<h2>Kerr highlights the differences between Green and Pippen</h2>



While Kerr acknowledged that Green stands apart from <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/scottie-pippen">Pippen</a> due to his physical strength and ability to guard low-post players, he also pointed out that the game was vastly different during the era when the Bulls legend was competing.



“What makes Draymond different than Scottie is that Dray is physically stronger and more capable of guarding low-post players,” Kerr explained. “I’ll give Scottie a break because back then, the low-post guys were Shaq, Patrick Ewing, and Hakeem. It was a very different game“.



<h2>Green’s defense returns to elite form</h2>



In recent years, Green’s defense hasn’t always been at the level that won him the 2017 Defensive Player of the Year award and earned him eight All-Defensive Team selections. However, his recent performances suggest a resurgence in his defensive prowess—just in time for the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/golden-state-warriors">Warriors</a>’ playoff push.



Against the Bucks, Green tallied 10 rebounds, two steals, and four blocks in 36 minutes while holding Giannis Antetokounmpo to just 20 points on 31.3% shooting. His standout performance was a reminder of his elite capabilities and a promising sign for Golden State as they gear up for the postseason.

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One of the greatest players in NBA history, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/reggie-miller" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reggie Miller</a>, has left an indelible mark on the game. A Hall of Famer, five-time NBA All-Star, and a member of the 75th NBA Anniversary Team, Miller’s career was incredibly successful. However, one thing that eluded him was an NBA championship. Despite this, his legacy with the Indiana Pacers is something fans cherish and never take for granted. Recently, Miller weighed in on the ongoing debate over the greatest power forward of all time, and notably, he didn’t place Dennis Rodman or Karl Malone at the top.



As debates about the GOAT in various positions, including the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>‘s greatest of all time or their starting five, continue to captivate fans, Miller chose to focus on the power forward position. Having played 18 seasons with the Pacers, Miller faced some of the best players in NBA history, including <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rodman</a>.



When it comes to the debate over the GOAT in every position or even in NBA history, Miller’s comments often spark buzz. In this case, when discussing the greatest power forward of all time, Miller brought up a name that has nearly been forgotten: San Antonio Spurs legend Tim Duncan, instead of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/karl-malone" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Malone</a>.



“People forget about Tim Duncan. Is he the greatest ever? He is the greatest power forward ever. Five rings, three MVPs, 10+ years as an All-Defensive player,” Miller said during an appearance on The Mark Jackson Show in 2024. “Who else are you naming with those records? Wilt? He only won two rings.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250319_BUS_359205_Ginobili-Parker-Duncan-1024x576_781dd5fe.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-351417" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/08205131/Ginobili-Parker-Duncan-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/08205131/Ginobili-Parker-Duncan-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/08205131/Ginobili-Parker-Duncan-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/08205131/Ginobili-Parker-Duncan-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/08205131/Ginobili-Parker-Duncan-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/08205131/Ginobili-Parker-Duncan-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/08205131/Ginobili-Parker-Duncan-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/08205131/Ginobili-Parker-Duncan.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>San Antonio Spurs stars Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Emanuel Ginobili during the 2009-10 NBA season.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Tim Duncan’s historic career</h2>



Spurs star is widely regarded as one of the greatest players to ever grace the basketball court. Over his 19-year career with the San Antonio Spurs, alongside legendary teammates like Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tim-duncan" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duncan</a> built a legacy that will be remembered for generations.


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A two-time MVP and a member of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team, Duncan’s numbers speak for themselves. He posted career averages of over 50% in shooting from the field, beyond the arc, and on two-point shots. His regular season scoring average stood at 19 points per game.



Duncan’s dominance extended to the playoffs, where he played in 215 games across 18 of his 19 seasons. He was named Finals MVP three times and posted an impressive 20.6 points per playoff game, along with 11.4 rebounds. He also maintained shooting percentages of more than 50% on both three-pointers and two-point field goals.



<h2>Miller’s legacy</h2>



Spending his entire career with a single franchise, Miller was more than a legend for the franchise. Drafted by the Pacers in 1987, he didn’t leave and stayed for 18 seasons, leaving a lasting impact on the franchise’s history. As he was one of the team’s legends, the Pacers decided to retire his jersey.



“If Michael Jordan ever would have called me and tried to sway me to come to Chicago, I would have told him to go [expletive] himself… I’ll be down to see you. I never came close to going anywhere else,” Miller said when asked about leaving the franchise, if the one and only Michael Jordan have called him.

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Not Dennis Rodman or Karl Malone: NBA legend Reggie Miller names his GOAT power forward - Bolavip US

Not Dennis Rodman: NBA legend Reggie Miller names his GOAT power forward

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman">Dennis Rodman</a> is widely regarded as one of the greatest defenders in NBA history. A five-time champion with stints on legendary teams like the Detroit Pistons and Chicago Bulls, the versatile forward built his reputation on elite rebounding and relentless defense.



During his career, Rodman led the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a> in rebounds per game for seven consecutive seasons. He topped the league in defensive rebounds in 1992, 1993, and 1998, and was the leader in offensive rebounds from 1991-94 and again in 1996-97. 



Known for his tough defensive assignments, Rodman faced off against some of the league’s all-time greats. While he acknowledged three particularly challenging opponents, he ultimately highlighted one as the toughest.



Interestingly, despite his intense battles with Michael Jordan during his time with the “Bad Boys” Pistons, Rodman didn’t name MJ among his toughest defensive assignments. Instead, he spoke about his encounters with Shaquille O’Neal, Karl Malone, and Alonzo Mourning.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250129_BUS_324449_dennis-rodman-1024x576_ad212511.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-320194" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/23185913/dennis-rodman.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Dennis Rodman of the Chicago Bulls argues with an official during a playoff game against the Miami Heat. (Andy Lyons /Allsport/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Rodman reflects on guarding NBA greats</h2>



In 2021, Rodman appeared on the “Straight Talk” program at the Wilmington Public Library, where he looked back on his incredible NBA career. During the interview, he was asked which player—among Shaquille O’Neal, Karl Malone, and Alonzo Mourning—was the hardest to guard. Rodman provided insight into defending all three before ultimately singling out the one he found most challenging.


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“Shaq had a problem with me because, you know, I’m the only guy who could hold him down—three or four points, five points, stuff like that,” Rodman said, reflecting on his matchups with O’Neal during his dominant years with the Lakers.



Then he addressed Mourning: “Alonzo Mourning literally, literally, passionately just hated me because I just got in his head all the time. He’s stronger and stuff like that, but, you know, I didn’t worry about that”.



Finally, Rodman spoke about Karl Malone, naming the Hall of Famer as his toughest matchup. “Karl Malone, you know I love Karl Malone. He was tough as hell though. But yeah, just Karl Malone—I can call one out of all three of those guys the toughest,” Rodman concluded.



<h2>Rodman’s pick for the GOAT</h2>



In a 2022 interview with the NBA 2K YouTube channel, Rodman shared his thoughts on the GOAT debate and picked his former Bulls teammate Michael Jordan as the greatest of all time.



“You guys are going to find out a really cool story about this guy who changed the game of basketball literally for all of us and for all of you kids today because you buy this guy’s stuff, and all this stuff is like gold. I think he’s the best,” Rodman said.



Rodman expressed his admiration for Jordan’s work ethic and the impact he had on the global basketball community. “He brought a lot to the entire basketball community around the world,” Rodman said. “That work ethic—that he just went to the gym and worked—was something that I appreciated from MJ”.



Jordan’s influence on the NBA transcended the court. His iconic playstyle and unrelenting drive inspired future generations, solidifying his legacy as not just a player but a transformative figure in the history of the game.

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Bulls icon Dennis Rodman names the toughest opponent he had to guard in the NBA - Bolavip US

You can name a lot of things about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dennis-rodman">Dennis Rodman</a>: His bold fashion choices, vibrant hair colors and array of piercings, but something that the NBA world unanimously agrees on is that he was one of the best players in the league. As a key member of the Chicago Bulls, Rodman was a vital part of the team that changed the game.



The trio of Rodman, Scottie Pippen and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/michael-jordan">Michael Jordan</a> was one of the greatest in the NBA history. Together, they won three consecutive championships and establishing themselves as the dominant team of their era. Despite the different paths that each player took in retirement, the titles and accomplishments remain an enduring testament.



During a 2022 interview with the NBA 2K YouTube channel, Rodman, who played alongside Jordan for several years before his personal challenges, shared his take on the GOAT debate and chose Michael Jordan. “You guys are going to find out a really cool story about this guy who changed the game of basketball literally for all of us and for all of you kids today because you buy this guy’s stuff and all this stuff is like gold. I think he’s the best,” Rodman said about MJ.



With that statement, Rodman made clear that Jordan was more than just a player. His style of play and the stories behind his success changed the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba">NBA</a>, inspiring younger generations who are now making history in the league.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250109_BUS_309670_Michael-Jordan-3-1024x576_d3cfef2e.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Michael Jordan" class="wp-image-253947" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Michael-Jordan-3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Michael-Jordan-3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Michael-Jordan-3-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Michael-Jordan-3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/10/Michael-Jordan-3.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Michael Jordan #23 of the Washington Wizards smiles before their game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY. The Knicks won 93-91.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Rodman’s appreciation for Jordan</h2>



As Jordan’s teammate, Rodman has shared a lot of stories about their time together in different spaces. Their partnership created in the 1990s was fondly remembered by that the Bulls fans, as it helped a lot in reaching the titles in the Chicago franchise’s history.


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Rodman has appreciation for Jordan, as he proved that being an athlete is something different from fame and excesses. “He brought a lot to the entire basketball community around the world,” Rodman said. “That work ethic that he just went to the gym and worked, was something that I appreciated from MJ.”



<h2>Rodman reflects on the Pippen-Jordan dynamic</h2>



As there was an undeniable bond between the three of them, and the NBA world recognizes that Jordan and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/scottie-pippen">Pippen</a> were great teammates in and out the floor. Fans witnessed that in every single game they played together, and that helped a lot to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/chicago-bulls">Bulls</a>‘ chemistry.



Because of that bond, Rodman remarked that Pippen and Jordan were the ideal role models for NBA players to emulate and admire. “Every practice, I mean every practice, he and Scottie did it. They made each other better, literally, during a game and Jordan wanted perfection,” Rodman remarked.



The funny part about MJ in the GOAT debate is that he told before that he doesn’t consider the NBA’s GOAT, as he stated: “I haven’t played to the players that came before me.” However, he remarked: “I accepted other opinions about him and the other players about me being the GOAT.”

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Bulls legend Dennis Rodman names the greatest NBA player of all time: 'Changed the game'

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