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NBA Legend Derrick Rose Reacts to Chicago Bulls News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Aug 21, 2025 11:31 AM ET

Derrick Rose has always been more than just a basketball star to the people of Chicago and the Chicago Bulls, where his NBA career began in 2008.

On Thursday, the Bulls announced that his No. 1 jersey will be retired on January 24, 2026, a moment that cements Rose’s legacy alongside Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen in franchise history.

The team will raise his jersey to the rafters at the United Center in a postgame ceremony when the Bulls host the Boston Celtics.

In response, Rose shared a heartfelt Instagram story that quickly spread across the sports world. “The game has given me more than I ever could have imagined,” Rose wrote. “From Englewood to the rafters, my story has always been about making the city proud. This isn’t for me, this is for Chicago. Peace and Love, Pooh. 1.24.26.”

The Bulls' announcement resonated deeply, not only because of Rose’s accolades but also because of his personal connection to the city where he grew up. His story has always been inextricably linked to Chicago’s identity.

Chicago Bulls Announce Details Of Derrick Rose Jersey Retirement

The Bulls revealed that Rose’s jersey will be retired during a ceremony filled with tributes. The United Center atrium will host a fan experience presented by BMO, FanDuel, Giordano’s and Paylocity.

The event will include special displays, interactive elements, and opportunities for fans to celebrate Rose’s career.

January 24, 2026

Join us for Derrick Rose Jersey Retirement Night when we officially add No. 1 to the United Center rafters. pic.twitter.com/WvuNMEwWkn
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) August 21, 2025

In the months leading up to the ceremony, the Bulls will host four games featuring collectible Rose figurine giveaways. Each figurine marks a different chapter in his Bulls career.

The series begins with “Rookie of the Year” Rose on November 4, 2025, against the Philadelphia 76ers. It continues with “Face Mask” Rose on December 17, 2025, against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The celebration peaks with “MVP” Rose on February 22, 2026, against the New York Knicks. Finally, “Green Jersey” Rose will be honored on March 19, 2026, against Cleveland.

These moments are designed to reflect Rose’s journey and connect fans with milestones from his time in Chicago.

Derrick Rose’s Lasting Impact On Chicago And The Bulls

Rose spent eight seasons in Chicago after being drafted first overall in 2008. He won Rookie of the Year in 2009 and made three All-Star appearances. In 2011, he became the youngest MVP in league history, averaging 25 points and leading the Bulls to a 62-20 record. His combination of speed, strength and creativity made him the face of a new era in Chicago basketball.

Even when injuries altered his career, Rose’s bond with the city never wavered. The Bulls went 245-161 with him on the floor and he helped carry them to their first Eastern Conference finals appearance since 1998. That playoff run cemented his place as one of the greats, with averages of 27.1 points and 7.7 assists in 2011.

Bulls chairman Jerry Reinsdorf called Rose “a hometown hero and a symbol of an entire era of Bulls basketball.” Team president Michael Reinsdorf said his “connection with Chicago was undeniable when he was here, and it has only grown stronger over time.” Those words reflect how Rose transcended his statistics, becoming an enduring emblem of pride for the city.

On January 24, 2026, his No. 1 jersey will join the banners of Sloan, Love, Jordan and Pippen. For Rose, and for Chicago, it will be a moment of reflection and gratitude.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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