Rodman on the rebound

Wednesday, Feb. 5, 1997 | 11:59 a.m.

Suspended without pay by the NBA since kicking a courtside cameraman during a game between the Bulls and Minnesota Timberwolves on Jan. 15, Rodman was reinstated by the league Tuesday, effective after the All-Star break.

"I think it's unfortunate for the fans and everybody else that it occurred," Rodman said Tuesday night at halftime of the game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers at the Anaheim Arena. "I'm glad I can come back and play like I do again.

"I could say I'm sorry until I'm blue in the face, and it wouldn't prove anything. But I'm going to play for free. That shows that it isn't all about money."

Rodman's agent, Dwight Manley, said earlier in the day that his client, as a gesture of appreciation to his fans, will play his first 11 games after the suspension "for free, and donate the money on behalf of himself and the Bulls to 11 assorted charities."

When it ends, the suspension will have lasted 11 games, costing Rodman more than $1 million in salary and incentives, not to mention the $200,000 Rodman agreed to pay cameraman Eugene Amos after being suspended.

Rodman is eligible to play next Tuesday night against the Charlotte Hornets at the United Center.

When asked if he was returning with a clean slate, Rodman said, "I just live life day-to-day. I'm not going to change the way I am. My goal is still to contribute and be on one of the greatest teams of all time."

Bulls coach Phil Jackson said Rodman will be welcomed back.

"Dennis is an important aspect of our game," Jackson said. "We miss his defense, his rebounding and we're very pleased to have him back."

On commissioner David Stern's warning to Rodman that another incident could end his NBA career, Jackson said, "That's an ample warning. Dennis has to understand that the league is watching him. He has to be on his best behavior."