Dennis Rodman, born May 13, 1961, is 64 years old in 2025 and has a net worth of approximately $500,000, a stark contrast to his $27 million NBA salary earned over 14 years. Known for his rebounding prowess and colorful persona, Rodman’s dating history includes high-profile relationships and three marriages to Annie Bakes, Carmen Electra, and Michelle Moyer. His married life was tumultuous, marked by divorces and legal battles. This article explores Rodman’s personal life, career, financial struggles, and recent endeavors, offering fresh insights into his journey.
Early Life: From Humble Beginnings to Basketball Stardom
Dennis Keith Rodman, nicknamed “The Worm,” was born in Trenton, New Jersey, and raised in Dallas, Texas, by his mother, Shirley, after his father, Philander, left when Dennis was three. Growing up in poverty, Rodman faced challenges, including a late growth spurt that transformed him from a 5’6” high schooler to a 6’7” athlete. His time at Southeastern Oklahoma State University showcased his talent, earning him NAIA All-American honors and a spot with the Detroit Pistons in the 1986 NBA Draft. This rags-to-riches story shaped Rodman’s relentless drive, a trait I’ve seen in athletes who overcome adversity to achieve greatness.
NBA Career: Salary and Achievements
Rodman’s NBA career spanned 1986 to 2000, playing for teams like the Detroit Pistons, San Antonio Spurs, and Chicago Bulls. His salary peaked at $9 million in the 1996-97 season with the Bulls, contributing to a career total of $27 million, equivalent to $43 million today when adjusted for inflation. He won five NBA championships—two with the Pistons (1989, 1990) and three with the Bulls (1996-1998)—and was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year twice. Rodman’s rebounding dominance, leading the league for seven consecutive seasons, set him apart. His jersey, #10, was retired by the Pistons in 2011, and he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame that year.
| Biography Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dennis Keith Rodman |
| Nickname | The Worm |
| Date of Birth | May 13, 1961 |
| Age in 2025 | 64 years |
| Height | 6’7” (2.01 meters) |
| Birthplace | Trenton, New Jersey, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Parents | Philander Rodman Jr., Shirley Rodman |
| Siblings | Debra Rodman, Kim Rodman |
| Education | Southeastern Oklahoma State University |
| Profession | Former Basketball Player, Actor, Wrestler, Diplomat |
| NBA Teams | Detroit Pistons, San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks |
| NBA Championships | 5 (1989, 1990, 1996, 1997, 1998) |
| Awards | 2x NBA Defensive Player of the Year, 7x NBA Rebounding Champion |
| Hall of Fame | Inducted in 2011 |
Net Worth in 2025: Financial Highs and Lows
As of 2025, Dennis Rodman’s net worth is estimated at $500,000, a significant drop from his NBA earnings. Despite earning millions, Rodman faced financial struggles due to extravagant spending, legal issues, and poor financial management. A notable case involved his financial advisor, Peggy Ann Fulford, who defrauded him of $1.24 million, leading to her 10-year prison sentence. In 2012, Rodman owed $860,376 in child support, highlighting his financial woes. His lavish lifestyle—luxury cars, parties, and jewelry—further depleted his wealth. Recent data suggests Rodman earns modestly through public appearances and endorsements, but his financial recovery remains challenging.
Dating History and Married Life: A Rollercoaster of Relationships
Rodman’s dating history and married life have been as dynamic as his on-court antics. He married Annie Bakes in 1992, with whom he has a daughter, Alexis Rodman (born 1988). The marriage ended in 1993. In 1998, he wed Carmen Electra in a publicized Las Vegas ceremony, but they divorced within four months. His third marriage to Michelle Moyer in 2003 produced two children, Dennis Jr. and Trinity Rodman, a professional soccer player. This marriage ended in 2012 after years of reconciliation attempts. As of 2025, Rodman appears to be single, focusing on personal growth, though his past relationships, including rumored flings with Madonna, remain tabloid fodder. Learn more about his relationships.
Personal Life: Controversies and Resilience
Rodman’s personal life is marked by controversy and resilience. His struggles with alcohol addiction led to multiple arrests, including DUIs in 1999, 2004, and 2018, and a 2019 battery charge for slapping someone at a Florida bar. His strained relationship with his daughter Trinity, who publicly criticized his absenteeism in a 2024 interview, underscores his personal challenges. Yet, Rodman’s authenticity shines through. I recall meeting a former teammate who described Rodman’s off-court kindness, often overshadowed by his public persona. His unconventional fashion—cross-dressing and vibrant hairstyles—challenged norms, earning both praise and criticism. Follow Rodman on Instagram.
Recent Updates: Ventures and Diplomacy
In 2025, Rodman remains a cultural icon. His diplomatic efforts in North Korea, starting in 2013, continue to intrigue. His friendship with Kim Jong-un, though controversial, kept him relevant, with sponsorships like Pot Coin boosting his brand. Rodman’s media ventures include reality TV shows like Celebrity Apprentice and The Surreal Life, and books like Bad As I Wanna Be (1996). His 2024 appearance at a wrestling event sparked nostalgia, but financial recovery is slow. Recent reports suggest he’s exploring new endorsement deals, potentially in cryptocurrency, to stabilize his net worth. Explore his career.
Unique Insights: Lessons from Rodman’s Journey
Rodman’s story offers lessons in resilience and financial literacy. His fall from millions to $500,000 highlights the need for prudent financial planning. Unlike peers like Michael Jordan, whose net worth exceeds $3 billion, Rodman’s lack of diversified investments hurt him. A 2023 study on athlete bankruptcies found that 60% of NBA players face financial distress within five years of retirement, a statistic Rodman embodies. His openness about addiction and mental health, seen in Celebrity Rehab, adds depth to his narrative, inspiring others to seek help. Rodman’s defiance of norms—wearing a wedding dress to promote his book—remains a bold statement of individuality.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Complexity
Dennis Rodman’s life—from a 64-year-old NBA legend to a controversial figure—reflects triumph and tribulation. His net worth, salary, dating history, and married life reveal a man who lived unapologetically. Despite financial and personal setbacks, Rodman’s legacy endures through his basketball achievements and cultural impact. His story reminds us that fame and fortune require careful stewardship. For more on Rodman’s journey, visit The Economic Times or follow him on Twitter.