Derrick Rose, the youngest MVP in NBA history, has officially retired from professional basketball after an incredible 16-year career. The announcement came on September 26, 2024, just days before Rose’s 36th birthday on October 4. As he steps away from the game, Rose shares:
“I gave my all to basketball, and now, it’s time to give my all to my family. They deserve that.”
Rose’s MVP Rise and Iconic Career
Rose entered the NBA in 2008 as the No. 1 overall pick by his hometown team, the Chicago Bulls. The Chicago native quickly established himself as one of the league’s most electrifying players. He earned NBA Rookie of the Year honors in his debut season and was an All-Star for three consecutive seasons. In 2011, at just 22 years old, Rose became the youngest player in NBA history to win the MVP award, averaging 25 points and 7.7 assists per game. That same year, he led the Bulls to an NBA-best 62-20 record and an appearance in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Career Setbacks and Remarkable Resilience
While his early years showed immense promise, Rose’s career was interrupted by a series of injuries, beginning with a devastating ACL tear during the 2012 playoffs. Despite facing multiple setbacks, Rose persevered and continued to play for teams including the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons, and Memphis Grizzlies. Notably, Rose had a standout performance in 2018 with the Timberwolves, scoring a career-high 50 points in one game, marking a major moment in his comeback.
Final Years and Retirement
Rose finished his career with averages of 17.4 points and 5.2 assists per game across 723 games, including 518 starts. He took out full-page ads in newspapers across the six NBA cities where he played—Chicago, New York, Cleveland, Minneapolis, Detroit, and Memphis—thanking fans for their unwavering support.
In recognition of his impact, the Chicago Bulls will honor Rose with a special ceremony at the United Center on January 4, 2025, during a game against the New York Knicks. The Bulls have praised Rose, affirming that he will always be part of their family.
Derrick Rose’s Legacy
Rose’s story will be remembered for his incredible highs, such as being the youngest MVP, and for his resilience in overcoming career-threatening injuries. As Rose retires, his legacy as one of the most beloved and talented players of his generation is solidified in the hearts of NBA fans and the history of the game.
