NBA Mourns Loss of Rodney Rogers, Remembered for Talent and Resilience

Rodney Rogers, a revered figure in the NBA, passed away at the age of 54.

Wake Forest University, his former collegiate institution, issued a statement confirming Rogers' death on Friday, November 21st. His passing was attributed to natural causes, a consequence of a spinal injury sustained in 2008. He leaves behind his wife, Faye Rogers, and their three children: daughters Roddreka and Rydeiah, and son Rodney Rogers II. (Roddreka currently serves as an assistant coach for Georgia State's women's basketball team, and Rydeiah was a basketball player at North Carolina State between 2015 and 2019.)

In November 2008, Rogers suffered paralysis from the shoulders down after an ATV accident near Raleigh, North Carolina, where he inadvertently veered into a ditch and was thrown over the handlebars.

“Rodney Rogers, an NBA legend who played 12 years in the league, passed away on November 21, 2025, from natural causes related to the spinal cord injury he sustained on November 28, 2008,” his family stated in an announcement released by Wake Forest. “He transitioned peacefully, embraced by the unwavering affection of his devoted wife, Faye.”

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The tribute further expressed, “Originally from Durham, N.C., Rogers leaves an immense legacy as one of the most impactful players in the program's history and a lasting embodiment of bravery, benevolence, and the spirit of Pro Humanitate.”

His collegiate journey began when he joined the Wake Forest University basketball team in 1990, culminating in his final season where he earned the prestigious titles of Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year and First-Team All-American.

John Currie, former athletic director for Wake Forest, remarked, “Rodney Rogers fundamentally altered and propelled the growth of both Wake Forest University and Demon Deacons basketball from the moment he committed in the autumn of 1989.” Currie continued, “His rare blend of strength and elegance on the court was surpassed only by his immense compassion. His enduring determination and spirit in the aftermath of his injury touched countless lives and exemplified the essence of Pro Humanitate. Rodney demonstrated resilience in every stage of his life. Our deepest sympathies go out to Faye, Roddreka, Rodney II, Rydiah, and the entire Rogers family.”

Upon turning professional in 1993, he was selected as the ninth overall pick by the Denver Nuggets, embarking on a career that saw him play for multiple NBA franchises, notably spending four years with the Los Angeles Clippers. While with the Phoenix Suns in 2000, Rogers earned the esteemed Sixth Man of the Year Award.

Subsequently, Rogers' career included tenures with the New Jersey Nets, the New Orleans Hornets, and ultimately, the Philadelphia 76ers, concluding his time in the league in 2005.

On Saturday, November 22, the NBA issued a statement acknowledging Rogers' indelible impact on the sport of basketball.

An NBA statement declared, “The NBA community mourns the loss of Rodney Rogers. Rodney, who secured the Sixth Man of the Year Award during his time with the Phoenix Suns, was a cherished teammate throughout his 12 seasons in the NBA.” The statement continued, “He will be remembered not only for his athletic accomplishments but also for the exceptional fortitude, bravery, and benevolence he displayed throughout his life — attributes that motivated countless individuals. Our sincerest sympathies are extended to Rodney’s wife, Faye, and their loved ones.”

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Dave Odom, Rogers' former coach at Wake Forest, recalled him as an “exceptional talent” and “equally remarkable as an individual.”

Odom reflected, “He held deep affection for his teammates, his family, Wake Forest, and the sport of basketball.” He added, “Each time we spent time with him, I left with a renewed resolve to never lament — because he never did.”

Odom further elaborated, “He confronted life's challenges directly and maximized every opportunity. While he was a delight to observe on the basketball court, he was an even more outstanding person. He generously imparted his strength, his spirit, and his life with all those in his orbit.”