Don Shane: All for retiring Rodman’s jersey

(WXYZ) - Let’s face it, Dennis only really got weird when he left the Pistons and was no longer under the influence and guidance of Chuck Daly, a father figure to him. That’s when he went all tattoo and piercing crazy on us. That’s when he showed up at appearances dressed as a woman.

That was the whacked out, yet strangely, somewhat sensitive side of Dennis. The side that openly sobbed when he found out he won the defensive player of the year award for the first time. And Dennis was not the baddest of the Bad Boys, that honor proudly goes to Bill Laimbeer.

He had mad athleticism, was a relentless rebounder and raw but acrobatic offensively. He was such an intriguing player it was hard to keep your eyes off him when he was in the game. You just did not know what he might do.

I remember Chuck Daly screaming at him, “Dennis don’t think, just play!” And play he did.

He was so unique there hasn’t been anyone like him in the NBA since he left the game - an entertaining, infectious bundle of enthusiasm.

Some might argue he didn’t do enough to merit having his uniform retired. I say he was an x-factor, with a small ego at the time and really naïve. The Pistons would not have won back-to-back titles without him. Reason enough to raise his number 10 to the rafters.

He might be more appreciative of the honor because he probably thought it was never happening. Don’t forget to bring lots of Kleenex Friday night. Forget all the weird stuff that’s happened since he left. Dennis will be welcomed back with lots of love and tears will flow. Isiah, Joe, Bill, Vinnie, Chuck, make room up there for the worm. He belongs with you guys.