Nicknamed "Big Ben," Wallace has gained great notoriety in the Detroit area and nationwide, and fans often arrived at his games sporting wigs in honor of his trademark afro hairstyle. 

He is a four time NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2002, 2003, 2005, 2006), was named to the All-Defensive First Team five consecutive seasons (2002-06), a member of the 2004 NBA Champion Detroit Pistons and a four time All-Star Selection (2003-06). Ben is the first player in NBA history to record 1,000 rebounds, 100 blocks, and 100 steals in 4 consecutive seasons (2001-04). He is the first undrafted player in NBA history to be voted an All-Star Game Starter.

Starting his career with the Wizards and Magic, he spent four years with them before joining the Pistons. After six years with Detroit, Wallace signed with the Bulls and Cavs before again returning to the Pistons in 2009. Wallace announced he would retire after the 2012 season.