Rodney Rogers, the former NBA Sixth Man of the Year whose 12-year professional career was defined by his powerful, versatile play, died on Friday, Nov. 21, at the age of 54. Rogers’ family confirmed that his death was attributed to natural causes related to the spinal cord injury he sustained in a devastating 2008 accident.

The news was announced by Wake Forest University, Rogers’ alma mater, which shared a statement from his family released through the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA). The statement noted that Rogers, known for his relentless fight, “made his transition peacefully, surrounded by the endless love of his devoted wife, Faye.”

Rogers’ life changed dramatically on Nov. 28, 2008, three years after his retirement from the NBA. While riding an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) in rural Vance County, North Carolina, Rogers drove into a ditch, was thrown over the handlebars, and suffered an injury that resulted in paralysis from the shoulders down. The spinal cord injury required specialized medical care, which he received at centers including the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

Despite the immense physical challenges and chronic complications inherent in a severe spinal cord injury, Rogers maintained a public profile as a figure of resilience. His family noted the last 17 years were “challenging and profoundly blessed,” adding that Rogers “remained a light—positive, motivated, and full of the quiet strength that inspired everyone around him.” His foundation, the Rodney Rogers Foundation, was established to support others living with spinal injuries, promoting personal growth and hope in the face of adversity. This lasting impact was formally recognized by Wake Forest in 2022 when he received the Distinguished Alumni Award.

Rogers established himself as a critical contributor during his tenure in the NBA. Selected ninth overall in the 1993 NBA Draft by the Denver Nuggets, the 6-foot-7 forward played for seven different franchises across his career. His NBA journey included stops with the Los Angeles Clippers, Phoenix Suns, Boston Celtics, New Jersey Nets, New Orleans Hornets, and Philadelphia 76ers.

His career peak occurred during the 1999–2000 season with the Phoenix Suns, when he earned the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award. During that campaign, Rogers provided critical production off the bench, averaging 13.8 points and 5.5 rebounds per game while shooting at a high percentage from the three-point line. Rogers retired in 2005, having scored nearly 9,500 points.

Before his professional career, Rogers was a bona fide legend in the collegiate ranks. A native of Durham, N.C., he earned the enduring nickname "The Durham Bull" for his robust and powerful style of play. Rogers helped elevate the Wake Forest Demon Deacons program into a national contender in the early 1990s, earning ACC Freshman of the Year in 1991 and subsequently being named ACC Player of the Year and a First Team All-American in 1993. His No. 54 jersey was retired by Wake Forest, a permanent testament to his lasting legacy.

The basketball community, including former teammates and the franchises he played for, have offered tributes reflecting on his impact as a competitor and his quiet strength after the accident.