When Trinity Rodman burst into NWSL stardom, the world quickly learned she was the daughter of NBA Hall of Famer Dennis Rodman. But unlike most children of sporting legends, Trinity’s rise to success had very little to do with her father. Instead, she often credits her mother, Michelle Moyer, for being her role model and pillar of support.
Dennis and Moyer divorced in 2012 when Trinity was about 10 years old. From there, Trinity’s relationship with her father became what she describes as “complicated, at best.” On the Call Her Daddy podcast, Trinity opened up about her strained relationship with Dennis and the struggles she faced during her childhood.
“My dad, he likes to be in control,” Trinity shared. She recalled instances when her father would refuse to give money for small things, like food or outings with friends, unless he could maintain control. “He would take us shopping, swipe his card, but if we asked for $100 to get food or go to Claire’s to get my ears pierced, he was like, ‘No. You’re using me’, reported by USA Today.
She also described living in a Ford Expedition with her mother for a time and giving up on living with Dennis due to his lifestyle of constant parties and “bringing random bitches in.” Despite attending high-profile events like his Hall of Fame induction, Trinity says the public image Dennis projected was far from reality. “He loves the spotlight. He loves the cameras. He loves bringing his children on stage and being like, ‘Oh, these are my kids.’”
One of the most painful moments came in 2021 during Trinity’s rookie NWSL season when Dennis showed up unannounced at one of her games. “I’m trying to play this soccer game and I’m crying… My coach was like, ‘Do you want to play?’ And I was like, ‘Yeah, I want to win. Hello?’” Despite the emotional turmoil, Trinity went on to assist the winning goal in the second half. But after the game, her anger boiled over. “You took this happy moment from me. You f***ed with my head again.”
Though the encounter ended on a seemingly wholesome note with Dennis promising to reconnect, Trinity revealed it was “radio silence” afterward. She didn’t hear from him again for over two years, until late 2023. “I lost hope in ever getting him back,” she admitted.
Now 22, Trinity has carved out her own legacy in soccer, with achievements like an NWSL championship, Olympic gold, and multiple individual honors. However, her relationship with Dennis remains complex. She doesn’t save his phone number because it constantly changes, and hearing his voice, altered by alcoholism, is painful for her. “I answer the phone now for my conscience… He’s not a dad. Maybe by blood, but nothing else.”
Despite the challenges, Trinity Rodman continues to shine as one of the brightest stars in soccer, while still navigating her past and the complex dynamics of family.