Derrick Rose Declines a Statue but Welcomes Jersey Retirement

Derrick Rose, one of the most electrifying players in Chicago Bulls history, recently expressed his thoughts on being honored by the franchise. While he appreciates the idea of his No. 1 jersey being retired, the former NBA MVP is hesitant about receiving a statue.

In an interview with ESPN, Rose made it clear he doesn’t want a statue, citing the way some recent statues have been designed. “The statues, the way people been creating the statues, no, I do not want no statue,” Rose said. His remarks seem to be a subtle nod to the criticism surrounding Dwyane Wade’s statue, unveiled by the Miami Heat in October. Wade’s statue faced a wave of online jokes and skepticism, though Wade himself brushed off the criticism.

But for Rose, the idea of an awkwardly designed statue is enough to dissuade him. Directly addressing the Bulls’ leadership, he humorously pleaded, “Jerry, no statue, bro. Please, Michael, no statue,” referencing Bulls owner Jerry Reinsdorf and team president Michael Reinsdorf.

A Career Worth Honoring

Rose’s contributions to the Bulls franchise are undeniably historic. Drafted first overall by Chicago in 2008, he quickly established himself as a force in the league, earning the Rookie of the Year award in 2009. Over the next few years, Rose reached new heights.

In 2011, he became the youngest player in NBA history to win the MVP award at just 22 years old. Known for his explosive speed, unmatched athleticism, and ability to dominate games, Rose led the Bulls to the top of the Eastern Conference, reviving hopes of a championship run.

From 2010 to 2012, Rose earned three consecutive All-Star nods and was widely considered one of the league’s brightest stars. Unfortunately, injuries derailed his time in Chicago. Torn ACLs and other setbacks limited his playing time, and by 2016, Rose was traded to the New York Knicks.

Despite the injuries, Rose’s impact on the Bulls remains undeniable. His tenure in Chicago marked a golden era for the team following the dominance of Michael Jordan in the 1990s.

Life After Chicago

After leaving the Bulls, Rose spent the rest of his career as a journeyman, playing for several teams, including the Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons, and Memphis Grizzlies. Although injuries hampered his abilities, he remained a beloved player due to his perseverance, humility, and dedication to the game.

Rose retired in 2024 after a remarkable 16-year career. His comeback moments, like a 50-point game with the Timberwolves in 2018, were celebrated as proof of his resilience and heart.

A Special Night in Chicago

On Saturday, the Bulls hosted "Derrick Rose Night" during their game against the New York Knicks, celebrating the three-time All-Star’s legacy. Both teams donned warmup shirts honoring Rose, and the Bulls unveiled a special atrium filled with memorabilia from his career.

This tribute highlights the love Chicago fans still hold for Rose. Even after his departure, his connection to the city has remained strong.

Jersey Retirement Announcement

Adding to the celebration, the Bulls announced that they will retire Rose’s No. 1 jersey during the 2025-26 NBA season. This honor cements Rose’s place as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.

For Rose, having his jersey in the rafters is a meaningful acknowledgment of his time in Chicago. It serves as a reminder of his incredible rise to stardom and the joy he brought to Bulls fans during his tenure.

Why No Statue?

While many players dream of having a statue outside an arena, Rose is surprisingly not interested. His reluctance might stem from a desire to avoid unnecessary scrutiny or simply a preference for more personal ways of honoring his legacy.

Despite declining the idea of a statue, Rose remains grateful for the recognition he’s received. “It’s enough for me to know I left a mark,” Rose said in a past interview. His humility has always been a defining trait, endearing him to fans and teammates alike.

The Legacy of Derrick Rose

Derrick Rose’s story is one of triumph, resilience, and humility. From becoming the youngest MVP in league history to overcoming countless injuries, Rose has inspired millions of fans worldwide.

In Chicago, his legacy is secure. His jersey retirement will serve as a permanent reminder of his contributions to the Bulls and the sport of basketball. While he may never have a statue outside the United Center, Derrick Rose’s impact on the game and the city of Chicago is larger than life.