Derrick Rose, a seasoned NBA veteran and former league MVP, announced on Thursday that he is retiring from professional basketball.
Drafted first overall in 2008 from the University of Memphis, Rose spent 16 seasons in the NBA, with the first seven years devoted to the Chicago Bulls.
In his retirement announcement shared on social media, he also placed advertisements in newspapers across the six NBA cities where he played, expressing heartfelt gratitude to the game of basketball.
“Thank You, My First Love… You believed in me through the highs and lows, my constant when everything else seemed uncertain. You showed me what love truly meant. You turned the court into my sanctuary, a home where I could express myself freely. You made every early morning and late night we spent together worth every drop of sweat,” he wrote.
“You reminded me that I could always rely on you, that in every moment of doubt, you would show me what I’m capable of. You introduced me to new places and cultures that a kid from Chicago could never have imagined.
“You taught me that every loss was a lesson and every win was a reason to be grateful.
“You offered wisdom that was not just about the game, but about life, discipline, hard work, and perseverance. You showed me that passion is something to cherish, ensuring that I poured my heart into every dribble, every shot, every play. You stood by me even when the world seemed against me, unconditionally, waiting for me to pick you up.
“You gave me a gift, our time together, one that I will cherish for the rest of my days. You told me it’s okay to say goodbye, reassuring me that you’ll always be a part of me, no matter where life takes me. Forever yours. Derrick Rose.”
Rose, who played for the New York Knicks in 2022, made history by becoming the youngest player to win the Most Valuable Player award in the NBA in 2011.
Throughout his career, Rose played for six different franchises but will be most fondly remembered for his time with the Bulls.
He won the Rookie of the Year award in his debut season and quickly became the franchise’s star player. When healthy, Rose displayed remarkable skills on the court, averaging 25.0 points and 7.7 assists per game during the 2010-11 season, which culminated in his historic MVP award win.
However, the following season brought a devastating torn ACL during the playoffs against the Philadelphia 76ers, marking the beginning of a career plagued by injuries.
Over the years, Rose played with the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons, and Memphis Grizzlies.
A three-time All-Star, he concluded his career with averages of 17.4 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game.