Derrick Rose shared his disbelief and gratitude after learning the Chicago Bulls would retire his No. 1 jersey next season. The announcement came before an emotional evening at the United Center, where the Bulls hosted the New York Knicks. Both teams honored Rose during warmups, wearing shirts featuring the numbers he wore throughout his career. Fans were also invited to experience a newly dedicated Derrick Rose Atrium, featuring memorabilia celebrating his basketball journey and deep connection to Chicago.
The halftime ceremony was a heartfelt tribute, with former teammate Joakim Noah leading the crowd in chants of “M-V-P.” A tribute video and a short film, Becoming a Rose, captured Rose’s career and his impact on the city. During his remarks, Rose thanked Chicago for pushing him to strive for greatness and emphasized that the evening was about celebrating everyone who played a role in his life, from his early days to his time as an NBA star. The Bulls capped the celebration with an electrifying second-half performance, defeating the Knicks 139-126.
Rose, the youngest MVP in NBA history, played eight seasons with the Bulls after being drafted as the No. 1 pick in 2008. His remarkable rise to stardom was tempered by significant injuries, including multiple knee surgeries, which altered the trajectory of his career. Despite these setbacks, Rose became a symbol of resilience and determination. He will join franchise legends like Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen as the fifth player to have his jersey retired by the Bulls, solidifying his legacy in the team’s storied history.
In the days leading up to the ceremony, Rose connected with fans through a series of community events. He hosted a pop-up flower shop, organized a charity basketball game at his high school alma mater, and spent time on the court with his son, PJ. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson declared the day as Derrick Rose Day, recognizing his contributions to the city both as an athlete and as an inspiration to countless fans. Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau, who coached Rose in Chicago and elsewhere, called him “the most beloved player in the league” and praised his extraordinary ability to rise in pivotal moments.
Reflecting on his career, Rose dismissed regrets, viewing his challenges as opportunities for personal growth. He acknowledged that the adversity he faced helped him develop a deeper understanding of himself beyond basketball. While injuries cut short his prime, Rose remains at peace with his journey, cherishing the lessons he learned along the way. His jersey retirement will celebrate not just his on-court achievements but also the resilience and heart that endeared him to fans in Chicago and beyond.