While Michael Jordan rightfully receives accolades for his iconic performance in the '96 NBA Finals, Shawn Kemp reveals that Dennis Rodman's relentless aggression and unconventional tactics played a pivotal role in the Bulls' victory over the Seattle SuperSonics.
The Chicago Bulls' second three-peat, starting with the 1996 NBA Finals, marked Michael Jordan's triumphant return to the court after his brief retirement. His exceptional performance, averaging 27.3 points per game, earned him his fourth NBA title and the Finals MVP award. The team's impressive 72-10 regular season record, an NBA record at the time, further solidified their dominance.
However, according to Shawn Kemp, a key member of that formidable Seattle SuperSonics squad, Jordan was not the sole catalyst behind their demise. Kemp asserts that Dennis Rodman's relentless aggression and unconventional tactics proved to be the deciding factor.
Dennis Rodman: The Unsung Hero of the '96 Bulls' Three-Peat
"Michael wasn't the reason, he didn’t beat us," Kemp stated in an interview with the "All The Smoke" podcast. "We was on his a--. Dennis Rodman was the one who beat us. We had no answer for his a--."
Rodman's dominance on the boards was evident throughout the six-game series. He averaged 14.7 rebounds per game, with double-digit rebounds in every contest. In Game 2 and Game 6, he recorded an impressive 20 and 19 rebounds, respectively.
Dennis Rodman: The Unsung Hero of the '96 Bulls' Three-Peat
But it was not just his physical presence that rattled the Sonics. Rodman employed unorthodox methods to intimidate his opponents, including wearing colored contacts and attempting to kiss Frank Brickowski's arm. Kemp explains that these tactics were specifically designed to push the buttons of Seattle's players, particularly Brickowski, who struggled to contain his discomfort.
"He wore colored contacts during the championship with some lip s---. He trying to kiss Frank [Brickowski]'s arm," Kemp said. "Frank couldn’t take it. The man in him just couldn’t allow it. Dennis knew what buttons to push. We needed Frank to rebound."
Dennis Rodman: The Unsung Hero of the '96 Bulls' Three-Peat
Rodman's unconventional tactics may have been unconventional, but they proved effective in disrupting Seattle's rhythm and creating opportunities for the Bulls. His ability to control the glass and limit Seattle's second chances played a crucial role in Chicago's ultimate victory.
While Michael Jordan's brilliance cannot be understated, it is clear that Dennis Rodman's contributions were equally significant in the Bulls' 1996 NBA Finals triumph. His relentless aggression, intimidating presence, and unorthodox tactics proved to be the perfect foil for the Seattle SuperSonics, ultimately paving the way for Chicago's second three-peat.
