Former NBA star Rodney Rogers, who transformed personal tragedy into a beacon of hope for others, has passed away at 54, leaving behind a legacy that exemplifies the American spirit of perseverance and community service.
Wake Forest Star’s Rise to NBA Success
Rogers established himself as a basketball force during his college years at Wake Forest University. He earned Atlantic Coast Conference Rookie of the Year honors in the 1990-1991 season, defeating future Basketball Hall of Famer Grant Hill for the award. His stellar performance continued as he averaged over 21 points and 7 rebounds during the 1992-1993 season, capturing the ACC Player of the Year Award and positioning himself as the Denver Nuggets’ ninth overall draft pick.
Remembering Rodney Rogers (1971-2025) pic.twitter.com/7jrOEnKO8N
— NBA History (@NBAHistory) November 23, 2025
Productive NBA Career Across Multiple Teams
Rogers demonstrated versatility and consistency throughout his 12-season NBA career spanning seven different teams. He played for the Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, Boston Celtics, New Jersey Nets, New Orleans Hornets, and Philadelphia 76ers before retiring in 2005. His most notable achievement came with the Phoenix Suns during the 1999-2000 season when he earned the NBA Sixth Man of the Year award, recognizing his exceptional contributions as a reserve player.
Tragedy Transformed Into Community Leadership
Rogers faced his greatest challenge in 2008 when an ATV accident near Raleigh, North Carolina, left him paralyzed from the shoulders down. The accident occurred when he drove into a ditch and flipped over the handlebars, requiring emergency transport to a specialized spinal and brain injury treatment center in Atlanta. Despite never regaining the ability to walk, Rogers channeled his experience into meaningful community work, exemplifying the resilience and determination that define American character.
We grieve the passing of Rodney Rogers, 2022 Distinguished Alumni award winner and @WakeMBB legend.
Rodney inspired us on the court as ACC Rookie of the Year, ACC Player of the Year and NBA Sixth Man of the Year. After a life-changing accident in 2008 that left him paralyzed… pic.twitter.com/U7G09VrEOx
— Wake Forest University (@WakeForest) November 22, 2025
Foundation Work and Lasting Impact
Rogers refused to let his physical limitations define him, instead founding the Rodney Rogers Foundation to encourage others living with spinal injuries. His wife Faye noted that he maintained an upbeat and joyful attitude despite overwhelming challenges, inspiring countless individuals through his advocacy work. Friends and family remember him as a positive influence who touched many lives through his foundation’s mission. Rogers is survived by his wife Faye, whom he married in 2010, daughters Roddreka and Rydiah, sons Rodney II and Devonte Rogers, Eric Hipilito whom he embraced as a son, and his mother Estelle.