Derrick Rose got the surprise of his life Saturday night when the Bulls announced they’ll retire his No. 1 jersey next season. The news came just before Chicago faced off against Rose’s current team, the New York Knicks, at the United Center.
“I’m still in a daze,” the former MVP admitted after the game.
The Bulls went all out to celebrate their hometown hero. Both teams warmed up wearing special shirts with “1.4.25” – a clever nod to all three numbers Rose wore during his career. The team also unveiled a special Derrick Rose display packed with memories from his incredible run in Chicago.
Rose, now 36, tried to keep his emotions in check before the game. “Tonight’s not about that,” he said quietly.
“It’s about celebrating everyone who was part of the journey – the good, the bad, the ugly. Everyone who was part of the story.”
The United Center was electric during halftime. Former teammate Joakim Noah shared stories about Rose, while beloved broadcasters Stacey King and Neil Funk paid tribute to Chicago’s favorite son. The crowd couldn’t help themselves, breaking into their familiar “M-V-P” chant that used to shake the building during Rose’s peak years.
Fans then watched a highlight reel of Rose’s greatest moments, followed by a short film called “Becoming a Rose.”
Standing at center court, Rose’s voice cracked slightly as he addressed the crowd: “Thank you Chicago for forcing me to be great. For putting those expectations on me.”
The Bulls seemed inspired by it all, exploding for a 24-point advantage in the third quarter after trailing at half. They finished off the Knicks 139-126, making Rose’s celebration even sweeter.
Rose’s impact on the game was undeniable. In eight seasons with Chicago, he became the youngest MVP in NBA history at just 22 years old. His current coach with the Knicks, who’s worked with Rose across three different teams, believes the Hall of Fame is next.
“When you looked in the opponents’ eyes as they tried to guard him,” the coach recalled, “you could see the fear and the respect.”
The No. 1 jersey will officially rise to the United Center rafters in the 2025-26 season, ensuring no Bull will ever wear that number again.
