Rodman, winner of five NBA Championships (Detroit Pistons 1989, 1990; Chicago Bulls 1996, 1997, 1998) and two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year (1989-90, 1990-91), was sure to have sparked interest.

Despite widespread public support for the initiative, the proposed exhibition game will not go ahead before the start to the new NBL season on September 19.

Crazy John’s South Dragons chairman Mark Cowan said unassailable logistical issues were behind the decision not to proceed.

“I’m very disappointed that this event is not going ahead at this time,” he said.

“The game would have been a great draw card, and a nice way to kick off our season, but in the end we had a short window to make it happen and logistical issues have prevented it from proceeding.”

Despite the derailment of plans for the proposed showdown, the Crazy John’s South Dragons will continue their bid to draw a big-name star to Australian shores for a future event.

Cowan said the club was committed to the concept and would look to stage a game at a more feasible time in the future.

“Our intention in trying to bring Dennis out was to bring attention to the sport,” he said.

“We will look for another opportunity to do this at a later stage.”