The Chicago Bulls are about to witness history. Derrick Rose’s No. 1 jersey will be raised to the United Center rafters today as Chicago faces off against the Boston Celtics. He joins Jerry Sloan (4), Bob Love (10), Michael Jordan (23), and Scottie Pippen (33) as the only Bulls to have their numbers retired.

“It means a lot. The fans, the coaches, my family members that went to games, the fans that travel in town, from overseas, or different states. It’s all for us so I appreciate it,” Rose stated.

Rose got an exclusive first look at the banner and was joined by his family and former teammates Joakim Noah, Taj Gibson, and Kirk Hinrich. One of those moments will hit anybody right in the heart. Seeing Rose take it in, surrounded by family and the guys who shared the journey, was pure emotion.

The Unbreakable Legacy of D-Rose

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May 4, 2011; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose (1) is presented the MVP trophy before game one of the second round of the 2011 NBA playoffs against the Atlanta Hawks at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-Imagn Images

Rose is one of the most remarkable players in NBA history. He became the youngest MVP ever (2011) at age 22. He led the Bulls to the best regular-season record and was a three-time NBA All-Star.

Rose had the game-winning three against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2015 East Semifinals. He had 36 points (tied NBA record for a rookie in first playoff game) and 11 assists against Boston in the 2009 playoffs.

Rose changed the game, inspired a generation, and never stopped representing the city that made him. He covers Slam Icons, our new digital cover series celebrating the legends of the game.

Rose had devastating injuries that could have ended his career. He reinvented himself and is widely respected as a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and love for the game.

End Of My Derrick Rose Rant

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Jan 4, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bulls and New York Knicks former player Derrick Rose speaks as he is honored at halftime of a game between the Chicago Bulls and the New York Knicks at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Chicago does not hand out love easily. It has to be earned, time and time again. Rose did exactly that, as the city watched one of its own grow into a superstar through his authenticity, fearlessness, and humility.

From Englewood to MVP, from those electric United Center nights to everything Rose gave to this city, the Windy City will forever love him. He gave NBA fans memories, his heart, and his love for the city.