Flashback #29: Rodman Kicks Cameraman (1997)

As of 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary on January 3rd, the station has begun to reveal (in chronological order) the Top 100 Chicago Sports Stories that have occurred since they first went on the air 20 years ago. Once all 100 of these "flashbacks" have been revealed, fans will be able to vote for which stories they believe are the most significant in the 20 year history of The Score. To see all of the Flashbacks that The Score has posted so far, please visit 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary page.

January 15, 1997 - Rodman kicks cameraman

Dennis Rodman was known for his colorful hair and his at-times poor attitude.

He was considered the bad boy of the NBA, and during a regular season game in mid-January of the 1996-97 season, Rodman earned his reputation.

As the Bulls were facing the Timberwolves, Rodman was fighting for a rebound before he was forced out of bounds by an opposing player. As he stumbled out of bounds, Rodman tripped over cameraman Eugene Amos and sprained his ankle

Rodman sat on the floor and starred at Amos for a moment before kicking the cameraman in the inner thigh.

Not only did Rodman end up paying Amos around $200,000, the kick resulted in an 11-game suspension and a $25,000 fine by NBA commissioner David Stern. Initially, the suspension could have been longer.

'Until Dennis can provide meaningful assurances that he will conform his conduct on the playing court to acceptable standards -- including not placing others at physical risk -- his suspension will continue,'' Stern said in a statement.

''During the period of Rodman's suspension, he will be required to meet with a counselor designated by the NBA,'' the statement said. ''A decision will then be made as to whether he can return to active status following the All-Star break.''

At the time, this marked the second-harshest suspension in NBA history, behind only the 26-game suspension Kermit Washington received during the 1977-78 season for sucker-punching Rudy Tomjanovich.

The Score will continue to release a new Flashback each weekday until they reach 100. Check back tomorrow for a new one, or check out all of the previous Flashbacks: 670 The Score's 20th Anniversary »