“Knowing that I gave my all to the game, I feel confident in my decision,” Derrick Rose told ESPN. “Basketball was just the beginning for me. Now, it’s important that I give my all to my family — they deserve that.”
On Thursday morning, Rose announced his decision to retire following 16 seasons in the NBA through a social media post as well as by taking out full-page ads in all six NBA cities he played in — Chicago, New York, Cleveland, Minneapolis, Detroit and Memphis.
A Chicago native, Rose played one season at the University of Memphis and led the Tigers to an appearance in the NCAA Championship Game. One of the most dynamic guards of his time, Rose was selected No. 1 overall in the 2008 NBA Draft by his hometown Chicago Bulls.
Rose wasted no time making a name for himself in the NBA. In his debut season, Rose averaged 16.8 PPG and 6.3 APG en route to winning Rookie of the Year. After earning his first All-Star selection in his second year, Rose was named MVP in his third season. The youngest MVP in NBA history, Rose averaged 25.0 PPG and 7.7 APG for the No. 1-seed Bulls. Following a 62-20 regular season, Chicago lost to the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals.
The star led Chicago to a 50-16 record and the No. 1 seed in 2012 but his career changed forever when he tore his ACL in the first round. Rose would only play 10 games over the next two seasons and never came close to matching his level of play prior to his ACL injury.
From being named MVP at the age of 22 to being a bench player for the final seven years of his career, Rose’s career is one of the bigger ‘what ifs’ of recent times. Rose finished his career with an average of 17.4 PPG and 5.2 APG in 723 games played.
Here is Rose’s retirement statement in its entirety:
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. 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 have never 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, perseverance. You showed me that passion is something to cherish, ensuring that I pour 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
