On March 9th in sports history, one significant event took place in 1997 when Dennis Rodman, the eccentric and talented NBA player, infamously kicked a cameraman during a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Rodman, who was known for his fierce defensive skills, vibrant hair colors, and unpredictable behavior both on and off the court, was playing for the Chicago Bulls at the time. During the third quarter of the game, Rodman stumbled out of bounds after contesting a shot. As he fell, his momentum carried him towards a group of photographers positioned near the baseline.
In a moment of frustration, Rodman lashed out and kicked cameraman Eugene Amos in the groin. Amos, who was working for WCCO-TV in Minneapolis, immediately collapsed to the ground in pain. The incident caused a commotion, and Rodman was promptly ejected from the game.
The NBA took swift action, suspending Rodman for 11 games without pay and fining him $25,000. The league cited Rodman's history of outbursts and unsportsmanlike conduct as factors in the severity of the punishment. Rodman also settled a lawsuit filed by Amos out of court, reportedly paying him $200,000.
The incident further solidified Rodman's reputation as one of the most controversial and unpredictable players in NBA history. Despite his antics, Rodman remained an integral part of the Chicago Bulls' second three-peat championship run alongside Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.
While the cameraman-kicking incident is not a proud moment in sports history, it certainly stands out as a memorable and talked-about event that occurred on March 9th, 1997.
