Previous NBA MVP champion Derrick Rose Announces Retirement from Basketball League
Drafted first overall in 2008 from the University of Memphis by the NBA, playing for a total of 16 seasons, the initial 7 of which were with the Chicago Bulls, was Rose.
Rose shared his retirement plans across social media and in local newspapers of the 6 NBA cities where he had played, writing an emotional tribute to the game of basketball.
"Thank you, my first love...You stood by me through thick and thin, my rock when everything else seemed unstable. You showed me what real love was. The court turned into my sanctuary, my safe haven where I could express myself freely. Each early morning and late night we spent together was worth every drop of sweat," he wrote.
"You reassured me that I could always depend on you, that in every moment of doubt, you would show me my capabilities. You took me to new places and introduced me to new cultures that a kid from Chicago would only have dreamed of.
"You taught me that every loss was a lesson, every win a reason to be grateful.
"You offered wisdom that went beyond the game; it was about life, discipline, hard work, perseverance. You taught me that passion was a gift to cherish, ensuring that I poured my heart into every dribble, every shot, every play. You were by my side even when the world seemed against me, unconditionally, waiting for me to rise again.
"You gave me a precious gift, our time together, which I'll cherish forever. You allowed me to say goodbye, reassuring me that you'd always be a part of me, wherever life takes me. Yours truly, Derrick Rose"
Rose played for six different NBA teams during his career, but he will always be remembered for his time with the Bulls.
In his debut season, Rose earned the Rookie of the Year award and became the franchise's face.
At just 22 years old, Rose averaged 25.0 points and 7.7 assists during the 2010-11 season, culminating in him winning the prestigious Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, becoming the youngest-ever recipient.
Unfortunately, in the following postseason, Rose suffered a torn ACL against the Philadelphia 76ers, marking the beginning of a series of injuries that plagued the remainder of his career.
Post his injury, Rose went on to play for the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons, and Memphis Grizzlies.
Rose, a three-time All-Star, concluded his career with an average of 17.4 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.2 rebounds.
Despite facing several injuries throughout his career, Rose continued to excel in the sport of basketball, consistently displaying his skills and talent. His passion for the game never waned, and he continued to give his all on the court, regardless of the team he was playing for.
