By DANA WAKIJI
FOX Sports Detroit
Feb. 11, 2011
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Pistons rookie Greg Monroe has a big decision to make.
Monroe wears No. 10, the same number that Dennis Rodman once wore and the same number the Pistons announced they will retire in a ceremony during the April 1 game against the Chicago Bulls.
"Ever since they told me, I've been thinking about it all day," Monroe said before Friday night's game against the Miami Heat. "Obviously, he had a great career. His number's being retired.
"It's going to be tough though. I've been wearing this number my whole life. It's not like I'm one of the greatest players ever in this league, or the number is part of my legacy, but it's the number I've played with my whole life."
Rodman was originally drafted by the Pistons in 1986. He played for them for the first seven seasons of his career. He then played for the San Antonio Spurs for two seasons before hooking up with the Bulls for three seasons and three championships.
Rodman was Defensive Player of the Year in 1990 and 1991, an All-Star in 1990 and 1992. He made the All-Defensive First team in 1989-1993 and 1995-96 and the All-NBA Third Team in 1992 and 1995.
Although Monroe was born June 4, 1990, he said he does have some memories of Rodman, although probably more with the Bulls than with the Pistons.
"I just remember full-out energy, obviously, a great rebounder -- one of the best rebounders to ever play the game, defensive player of the year," Monroe said. "I remember him, his crazy hairstyles, but I definitely remember the things he did to help his team win."
Monroe has a lot of respect for Rodman and what he accomplished in his career, so he is considering changing his number, unless Rodman himself gives his blessing.
"Maybe if I talk to him and he says if I wear it, it's fine, then it might make it a little easier," Monroe said. "I've got a lot of time to make a decision, so I don't know. I have the rest of the season. I can't change it immediately.
"I definitely am aware of how much of an honor it is. I'm definitely considering changing my number just out of respect. I respect the game. I respect my predecessors, so I'm definitely considering changing my number, but right now, I don't know."
