UPDATE: Former NBA star and Wake Forest legend Rodney Rogers has died at the age of 54. The news was just announced by his alma mater, Wake Forest University, confirming that Rogers passed away on Friday, October 20, 2023.
Rogers, who was famously drafted as the No. 9 overall pick in the 1993 NBA Draft by the Denver Nuggets, had been paralyzed from the shoulders down since a dirt bike accident in 2008. His family stated that he died of natural causes related to his spinal cord injury, as reported by the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA).
This tragic loss resonates deeply within the basketball community. The NBPA’s statement highlighted Rogers’ enduring spirit over the past 17 years, stating, “Rodney remained a light — positive, motivated, and full of the quiet strength that inspired everyone around him.”
Rogers was a standout athlete and a source of inspiration. He earned accolades as the Atlantic Coast Conference rookie of the year in 1991 and was named player of the year in 1993. His jersey, No. 54, was retired by Wake Forest, a testament to his impactful collegiate career where he averaged 21.2 points per game during the 1992-93 season.
“Rodney is the strongest person I have ever met — physically and mentally,” said former teammate Randolph Childress. “He meant so much to so many people.”
During his 12-year NBA career, Rogers played for several teams, including the Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, and Boston Celtics, scoring nearly 9,500 points and earning the title of NBA Sixth Man of the Year in 2000.
Rogers’ legacy extends beyond the court; he was a crucial advocate for those with spinal cord injuries, founding a foundation that promotes resilience and personal growth. His former coach at Wake Forest, Dave Odom, remarked, “He was a joy to watch as a basketball player, but he was an even greater man.”
Rogers is survived by his wife, Faye; daughters Roddreka and Rydiah; sons Rodney II and Devonte; his mother, Estelle Spencer; and family friend Eric Hipilito.
As tributes pour in from fans and players alike, the basketball community reflects on the profound impact Rogers had both on and off the court. His resilience and strength will be remembered as an inspiration for generations to come.
