The Worm has a soft spot after all.
Former Pistons ‘Bad Boy’ Dennis Rodman got choked up during a star-studded halftime event that saw the rebounding great’s number go up to the rafters at the Palace of Auburn Hills.
Former Pistons Isiah Thomas, Vinnie Johnson and John Salley headlined the speakers during the halftime show, which was hosted by long-time TV and radio announcer George Blaha. Current Pistons general manager Joe Dumars was also present at center court, but did not speak. Jack McCloskey, the general manager that drafted Rodman with the 27th overall pick in the 1986 draft, gave the opening remarks. McCloskey called Rodman the greatest defender and rebounder he’d ever seen.
Also in the crowd at mid-court was Pistons owner Karen Davidson, who was booed by the Palace crowd when she was introduced. Davidson as we all know is at the center of the Pistons’ ongoing and drawn out sale.
Rodman got emotional almost immediately after taking the stage. He repeatedly thanked his teammates and the city of Detroit in the ceremony, presenting Davidson with a white t-shirt with the words “Thank You Detroit” and his No. 10 on the back.