The Chicago Bulls organization prepared to honor one of basketball's most electrifying talents by retiring Derrick Rose's number 1 jersey in a ceremony at the United Center. While the moment celebrated his iconic career with the Bulls, members of the Memphis Grizzlies organization reflected on the profound impact the former MVP made during his brief but memorable tenure with their team.
Rose's journey to this honor began in Chicago, where he became the youngest MVP in NBA history at just 22 years old during the 2010-11 season. His explosive athleticism and dynamic playmaking revitalized the franchise and captivated the basketball world. However, his career was subsequently defined by his remarkable resilience, as he battled through multiple knee surgeries and injuries that would have ended lesser careers. Each comeback attempt showcased a determination that inspired fans and fellow players alike.
Rose's final professional season unfolded in Memphis during the 2023-24 campaign, a chapter that concluded his remarkable 16-year NBA journey. Though his time wearing the Grizzlies uniform spanned just 24 games, with modest averages of eight points and 3.3 assists per contest, his influence resonated far beyond the box score. The veteran point guard announced his retirement in September 2024, closing the book on a career that saw him become the youngest Most Valuable Player in league history.
For Jaren Jackson Jr., the memories of sharing a locker room with Rose remain vivid and multifaceted. When prompted to recall his experiences with the legendary guard, Jackson delivered a stream of recollections that painted a picture of a player whose dedication to his craft and his teammates knew no bounds.
Proverbs, chess, spontaneous workout sessions, sprint drills, defensive slides, unwavering composure, and even hairspray—these seemingly disparate elements all formed part of Jackson's recollection of Rose's daily presence. The veteran's commitment to excellence manifested in unexpected ways, from carrying philosophical wisdom to engaging in strategic mental exercises through chess, constantly seeking ways to sharpen both mind and body.
Jackson didn't hesitate to place Rose among the game's true elite. "One of the best players to ever touch a rock," he declared, emphasizing that Rose's greatness extended beyond his on-court exploits. The veteran served as a powerful example of how to conduct oneself both professionally and personally. Jackson particularly noted Rose's dedication to family, consistently bringing his loved ones to games and demonstrating what it means to balance athletic excellence with fatherhood.
Vince Williams Jr. offered his own unique perspective on Rose's time in Memphis, highlighting the veteran's legendary work ethic. He recalled the infamous weighted basketball that Rose would carry everywhere, dribbling the heavy ball during team travels and any available moment. This dedication to constant improvement, even after 16 seasons in the league, left a lasting impression on the younger players.
Williams employed an unexpected but fitting descriptor for Rose: philosopher. He explained that Rose possessed a rare ability to connect with teammates individually, offering guidance and wisdom without ever creating an uncomfortable or confrontational atmosphere. His approach to mentorship prioritized personal connection over public correction, creating an environment where younger players felt supported rather than criticized.
"The way he carried himself as a professional was simply on another level," Williams reflected. "I thoroughly enjoyed watching his entire career unfold, and I'm genuinely thrilled for him and his family as he receives this well-deserved honor."
The generational gap between Rose and the Grizzlies' youngest players made his mentorship particularly valuable. GG Jackson entered the NBA as a rookie during the same season Rose joined Memphis. At just 18 years old, Jackson found himself sharing a locker room with a 16-year veteran who had already achieved basketball immortality.
Their first interaction became a story Jackson would treasure. He encountered the former MVP in a mundane setting—simply washing his hands. Out of respect, the teenager addressed him formally as "sir" and "Mr. Rose." The veteran immediately stopped him, insisting that such formality had no place between teammates. From that moment forward, Jackson knew him simply as "D-Rose" and "Pooh," the nicknames that fans and friends had used throughout his career.
"He became my guy during his time here," Jackson shared. "Even though it was brief, I witnessed firsthand the work ethic that propelled him to MVP status, his fierce competitiveness, and his genuine passion for being on the court."
For a young Grizzlies team navigating its own identity, Rose's presence provided an invaluable masterclass in professionalism. While his on-court contributions were limited by age and injuries, his off-court impact was immeasurable. He demonstrated that leadership isn't always about being the highest scorer or loudest voice—sometimes it's about the quiet moments of wisdom shared between teammates, the example set through daily habits, and the humility to treat an 18-year-old rookie as an equal.
The significance of Rose's jersey retirement cannot be overstated. The Bulls organization has been remarkably selective in honoring its legends, with Rose becoming only the fifth player in franchise history to receive this distinction. The exclusive list includes icons like Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Jerry Sloan, and Bob Love. Pippen's ceremony in 2006 marked the most recent jersey retirement before Rose's honor, underscoring the rarity of this achievement.
As the ceremony approached, Jackson found himself wondering how the typically reserved Rose would handle the emotional weight of the moment. His mind drifted back to October 2018, when Rose delivered one of the most poignant moments of his career—a 50-point performance for the Minnesota Timberwolves that reduced him to tears of joy and relief. That raw, authentic display of emotion became an iconic NBA moment, a testament to Rose's resilience after years of battling injuries.
"He might give us another meme of him crying again," Jackson predicted with a smile. "That's just big time."
The ceremony at the United Center represented more than just a celebration of one player's achievements. It served as a culmination of a journey that inspired countless young athletes, including those who shared a locker room with him during his final season. For the Memphis Grizzlies, Rose's brief tenure left an indelible mark on their culture, proving that true greatness isn't measured solely by statistics or playing time, but by the lasting impact one has on others.
Rose's legacy extends beyond his explosive playing style and historic MVP award. It encompasses his resilience through devastating injuries, his dedication to his craft, and his commitment to mentoring the next generation. The Grizzlies players who witnessed his final season will carry those lessons forward, ensuring that the D-Rose influence continues to shape the NBA long after his playing days have ended.