After 16 years electrifying the NBA, former MVP Derrick Rose has officially announced his retirement.
The 35-year-old made the decision public via social media, reflecting on his journey: “Knowing that I gave my all to the game, I feel confident in my decision,” Rose told ESPN.
“Now, it’s time to give my all to my family — they deserve that.”
Rose’s retirement marks the end of an era that began when he was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft by his hometown Chicago Bulls.
He was an immediate sensation, winning Rookie of the Year and going on to become the youngest MVP in NBA history in 2011.
That season, he averaged 25 points and 7.7 assists, leading the Bulls to the best record in the league.
Despite his incredible start, Rose’s career was marred by injuries, starting with an ACL tear in the 2012 playoffs.
After that, he bounced between teams including the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Minnesota Timberwolves, before his final season with the Memphis Grizzlies.
To honor his time in the league, Rose took out full-page ads in newspapers from the six NBA cities he played in — Chicago, New York, Cleveland, Minneapolis, Detroit, and Memphis — thanking each fan base.
His final request to the Grizzlies was to be let out of the last year of his contract, which they granted.
Rose leaves behind a legacy of resilience, finishing his career with averages of 17.4 points and 5.2 assists per game across 723 total appearances.
Though injuries altered his path, Derrick Rose will always be remembered as one of the most exciting and fearless players of his generation.
Best wishes, Derrick, on your next chapter.
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