Almost a year has passed since Derrick Rose stepped away from the NBA for good. And now, just ahead of the 2026 season, the Chicago Bulls are making a move that’s got fans and fellow players feeling all kinds of emotions. They’re honoring the hometown hero in a big way.
LeBron James Fired Up Over Bulls Tribute to Derrick Rose
Back in 2008, the Bulls took Derrick Rose as the No. 1 overall pick, and right out the gate, he delivered. By his rookie season’s end, he was already a Rookie of the Year. Two years later? He managed to entrench his name into the books of history as the youngest MVP in league history, and for a time, it seemed like he was destined to be the future face of the NBA.
But as fans know all too well, this incredible rise was cut short. Injuries, the kind that change careers, started piling up. Despite the numerous comebacks, Derrick Rose could never comeback to that early MVP form. Still, his story didn’t just disappear like that. He managed to bounce around the league in the years that followed. Every stop had its ups and downs, but Rose always brought grit, skill, and a deep love for the game. Even without the spotlight, he quietly built a long, respected career.
And now? The Bulls are giving him a permanent place in franchise history.
LeBron Shows Love After Bulls Announce Jersey Retirement
Early Thursday, the Chicago Bulls revealed they’ll be retiring Rose’s No. 1 jersey this season. They’ve even set a date: January 24th. During that time of night, Derrick Rose’s name and number will be lifted into the rafters which will symbolize a lasting tribute to what he meant to Chicago basketball. Fans and NBA insiders alike had plenty to say, with reactions flooding in from all directions. One response in particular, stood out and that is LeBron James. The Lakers star didn’t just acknowledge the moment — he was pumped about it. LeBron James made it clear just how much respect he has for Derrick Rose, and how meaningful this recognition is.
During the early 2010s, LeBron James and Derrick Rose clashed intensely in the Eastern Conference battles, but later on, in a twist no one saw coming, they actually ended up on the same side in Cleveland. From rivals to teammates, it’s a full-circle kind of story. For Derrick, this is more than just a jersey retirement; playing for his hometown team was already the dream. But seeing his number go up with the likes of Jordan and Pippen? That’s a different level of legacy. LeBron’s reaction sums it up well, this isn’t just a formality, It’s a moment. Its not only a celebration of what Rose accomplished, but also what he overcame.
Sure, his path wasn’t traditional, i.e. the injuries, the trades, the battles were never easy and few players have inspired as much loyalty, emotion, and respect as Derrick Rose has over the years, and its for that reason now, Rose’s story becomes a permanent part of Bulls history, exactly where it belongs.
Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports
