USA (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Rodney Rogers, celebrated Wake Forest basketball legend and former NBA Sixth Man of the Year, has died at age 54. He leaves behind a legacy marked by athletic excellence, community leadership, and inspiring resilience following paralysis from a 2008 accident.
Legendary Wake Forest Player and NBA Star
As reported by Jason Owens of Yahoo Sports, Rodney Rogers was a transformative figure in college basketball with the Wake Forest Demon Deacons from 1990 to 1993. His exceptional skills helped ignite one of the most successful eras in the program’s history, culminating in his jersey number 54 being retired in 1996. Selected ninth overall in the 1993 NBA Draft, Rogers had a notable 12-year career playing for seven NBA teams, including earning the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2000 while with the Phoenix Suns.
Life-Altering Accident and Foundation Work
In 2008, as reported by Rachel Harris of ESPN, Rogers was paralysed from the shoulders down following a quad bike accident in North Carolina. Despite this life-changing event, he established the Rodney Rogers Foundation, which supports individuals with spinal cord injuries and advocates resilience and hope. This work earned him widespread respect beyond his athletic achievements.
Tributes and Family Statements
John Currie, vice president and athletics director at Wake Forest, praised Rogers’ impact on the university and his embodiment of the spirit of Pro Humanitate, Wake Forest’s motto. The Nets and other NBA organisations expressed condolences, acknowledging his contributions to basketball and his character off the court. Rodgers is survived by his wife Faye and their three children, including Roddreka, who works in collegiate basketball coaching.
Enduring Legacy in Sports and Community
Former Wake Forest coach Dave Odom recalled Rogers as a player who combined strength, elegance, and kindness. Rogers remains an enduring icon for Demon Deacons fans and the broader basketball community for his athletic prowess and exemplary resilience. His jersey displayed at Wake Forest symbolizes his lasting influence on the program and university culture.
