After breaking the NBA world with news of his retirement, the Chicago Bulls now intend to honor Derrick Rose with a special night this January 4, 2025 in celebration of his terrific career that was expected to reach bigger heights had it not been for his injuries. It seems that Rose will be getting that homecoming to Chicago after all.

The January 4 schedule will be also a game against the New York Knicks, another team that Rose played for after his run with the Bulls. Coincidentally, Tom Thibodeau, who is currently the head coach for the Knicks, also coached Rose in his stints with Chicago, New York, and the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Celebrating Greatness in Chicago

Chicago is honoring Rose for his success in the NBA as the youngest MVP ever, winning it in his third season – after a year where he won the Rookie of the Year award. Rose was selected first overall by the Bulls and was one of the beloved players in his hometown, and that even says a lot about how even owner Jerry Reinsdorf is proud to initiate this celebration.

“Drafting Derrick in 2008 was a special moment, not just for the Bulls organization, but for Derrick, the kid from Chicago, realizing his dream of playing for his hometown team. As both a player and a person, Derrick represents the grit, resilience, and heart of this city,” Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf said of Rose.

Rose would go on to suffer injuries in the early years of his career, which proved to be pivotal in his later performances in the game as he was then unable to return to his electric and athletic form in the game moving forward. Rose would end his tenure with Chicago after eight years.

Derrick Rose’s career has not been without its challenges. After suffering a devastating torn ACL in 2012, many feared his career might be over. However, Rose’s resilience became an inspiration to countless fans. His determination to rehabilitate and return to the court showcased his strong work ethic and mental fortitude.

Forging a Storied Comeback

Rose would then play for five other teams, including the New York Knicks with two stints (2016-17, 2021-2023), Cleveland Cavaliers (2017-18), Minnesota Timberwolves (2018-19), Detroit Pistons (2019-2021), and the Memphis Grizzlies (2023-24).

A three-time All-Star, Rose was expected to be the next face of the league. His injuries would get in the way as it prevented him from being available in most games and limited his production, reducing the impact he had on his teams.

“He’s one of the toughest and most determined athletes I’ve ever been around, constantly fighting through adversity that would have broken most,” Reinsdorf added. “Watching him grow from a Chicago Public League star to becoming the youngest MVP in NBA history as a Bull has been nothing short of an honor. Every time Derrick stepped on the court, it felt like we had a chance to win, and his MVP season remains one of the proudest moments in this franchise’s storied history.”

Rose did play for the United States’ National Basketball Team and won two gold medals back in 2010 and 2014. At 6 foot 3, Rose was really the big deal and could have been the next Bulls icon after Michael Jordan.

Derrick Rose’s connection to Chicago runs deep, making him one of the most beloved figures in the city’s sports history. From his humble beginnings to his incredible rise in the NBA, Rose has become a symbol of hope, resilience, and local pride for fans in the Windy City.