Rodney Rogers, former Sixth Man of the Year, has passed away at 54

Rodney Rogers, Former NBA Star, Passes Away at 54

Rodney Rogers, a former NBA player and Wake Forest standout, has died at the age of 54, as stated by the university on Saturday.

His wife, Faye, mentioned that he passed away due to natural causes linked to a spinal cord injury he suffered in 2008.

Rogers had a notable 12-season career in the NBA, earning the title of Sixth Man of the Year during the 1999-2000 season. Before making a mark in the NBA, he was a prominent figure at Wake Forest, where he became a legend.

“Rodney passed away on November 21, 2025, due to natural causes following a spinal cord injury he sustained on November 28, 2008,” Faye Rogers wrote in a statement.

She added, “The past 18 years have brought both challenges and immense blessings. Rodney has always been a beacon of positivity and quiet strength, inspiring everyone around him. Our family has received unwavering support from the Wake Forest and NBA communities, and we wish to express our heartfelt gratitude. Your kindness has meant more than we can articulate. We ask for privacy during this healing time and will share more details as they become available.”

According to the statement, Rogers was injured in a dirt bike accident while riding with friends the day after Thanksgiving.

During his time at Wake Forest, he was named ACC Freshman of the Year in 1991, leading the team to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1984. He earned first-team All-ACC honors in 1992 and 1993. After guiding Wake Forest to the Sweet 16 in 1993, he became ACC Player of the Year and was named a first-team All-American. Notably, Rogers is the only player from Wake Forest to have been both the ACC Freshman of the Year and the ACC Player of the Year.

After an impressive college career, he was selected ninth overall by the Denver Nuggets in the 1993 NBA Draft.

Throughout his 12 years in the NBA, Rogers played in 866 games, averaging 10.9 points, 2.0 assists, and 4.5 rebounds. His career spanned several teams, including the Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, and others.

The NBA expressed its sorrow over Rogers’ passing, stating, “The NBA family is deeply saddened by the passing of Rodney Rogers.”

Rogers will be remembered not only for his achievements on the court but also for his remarkable resilience, courage, and generosity, which inspired many. Despite facing paralysis, he consistently displayed an unwavering positive attitude, leading Wake Forest University to recognize him with the 2022 Distinguished Alumni Award—a prestigious honor.