The basketball world mourns the loss of Rodney Rogers, the electrifying forward who revolutionized Wake Forest basketball during the 1990s. The former NBA star passed away peacefully at age 54 due to natural causes connected to the spinal cord injury he sustained in a 2008 accident.
From Durham Roots to College Basketball Stardom
Hailing from Durham, North Carolina, Rogers arrived at Wake Forest in 1990 and immediately made history. His freshman year saw him claim ACC Freshman of the Year honors in 1991 while leading the Demon Deacons to their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1984.
The basketball prodigy continued his dominant performance, earning First Team All-ACC recognition in 1992. Rogers reached the pinnacle of college basketball in 1993 when he was named ACC Player of the Year and received First Team All-American honors while guiding Wake Forest to the Sweet 16.
Rodney Rogers remains the only player in Wake Forest history - and one of just seven in ACC history - to achieve both ACC Freshman of the Year and ACC Player of the Year awards. His explosive playing style established the foundation for seven consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances from 1991 to 1997, including the program's subsequent rise during the Tim Duncan era.
NBA Career and Professional Achievements
The Denver Nuggets selected Rogers ninth overall in the 1993 NBA Draft, making him the highest Wake Forest pick since 1962. Over his 12-season professional career with teams including the Clippers, Suns, Celtics, and Nets, he maintained an average of 11 points per game.
Rogers earned the ultimate recognition for his contributions off the bench when he received the 2000 NBA Sixth Man of the Year award. Known for his toughness and versatility, he retired in 2005 as a respected professional admired for his consistent performance amid intense competition.
Tragic Accident and Inspiring Advocacy
In November 2008, Rogers suffered a life-altering dirt bike accident that left him paralyzed from the shoulders down. Rather than retreating from public life, he channeled his energy into positive action through the Rodney Rogers Foundation.
He became a powerful advocate for spinal cord injury awareness, using his platform to empower others through stories of personal growth and resilience. His quiet strength and positive attitude transformed personal adversity into meaningful advocacy, touching countless lives beyond the basketball court.
Former Wake Forest Head Coach Dave Odom remembered Rogers as "one of the greatest athletes to ever play in the Atlantic Coast Conference" who "faced life exactly as it came and made the very best of every moment."
Rogers is survived by his wife Faye, daughters Roddreka and Rydeiah, son Rodney Rogers II, sons Devonte Rogers and Eric Hipilito whom he embraced as family, and his mother Estelle Spencer. His legacy continues through his family and the countless lives he inspired both on and off the court.
