The Last Dance: Phil Jackson was a true player’s coach
Jackson & Rodman
Watching episode 3 into episode 4, it’s apparent that Dennis Rodman was a key contributor to the Bulls while Pippen was out. It’s also noticeable that Rodman was, and still is, a unique individual. He certainly brought a different personality to the team that could not be matched.
Rodman is an icon. His sense of style, breaking gender norms, and his “bad boy” persona made him larger than life. But even though he was comfortable on and off the court, when he first joined the Bulls, he seemed lost and craving more out of life.
During the time Rodman became Jordan’s right-hand man, he seemed to gain a better sense of himself.
Rodman enjoyed that Michael needed him to continue the Bulls’ success. But once Pippen returned and went back to being the third wheel, his play started to diminish. Rodman began to lose the purpose he had found. He had gone from taking on more responsibility in Pippen’s absence and being on his best behavior, to seeing himself almost demoted with the return of the incumbent second. It was clear he needed a break. That’s when he asked Jackson for a vacation.
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When Jackson notified Jordan of Rodman’s request, Jordan was adamant that Rodman would not return (which Jordan was right to some extent). But Jackson didn’t argue with Jordan. Instead, he asked Rodman how much time he needed, and it was agreed that Rodman would have a 48-hour vacation.
Jackson could’ve said no, and told Rodman to put the team first. But he gave Rodman the freedom to clear his mind (even if it was a bender) so that he could be engaged for the rest of the season. This could have ended in many ways or encouraged Rodman to test Jackson’s kindness, but when he returned he seemed more dedicated and committed than earlier that week.
Rick Telander of the Chicago Sun-Times mentioned how Jackson was “the Rodman” for the Knicks. Essentially, meaning that Jackson was also a role player with a unique personality who did all the gritty work for the team.
Because of Jackson’s compassion and ability to bond with Rodman over their eccentric personalities, Jackson was able to unlock Rodman’s true potential.