Derrick Rose might’ve stepped away from the NBA, but that doesn’t mean he’s done making headlines. Ever since his retirement, fans have been wondering when they’d get to see the Chicago legend back on the court. After all, we’re talking about a 3× NBA All-Star, Rookie of the Year, MVP in 2011, and someone who had his name buzzing way before he hit the league. But the twist? He didn’t lace up again in Chicago. Instead, he took his talent 11,127 km away from home.
Yes, you read that right. Rose made a surprise appearance in China, and it wasn’t just to wave at fans and pose for pictures. The former MVP hit the floor in Guangzhou for a special one-on-one showdown with streetball sensation Chen Zewen—and let’s just say, he reminded everyone exactly who he is. Retirement or not, D-Rose still got game.
In fact, he didn’t just show up—he showed out. Dropping a wild 101 points in a friendly match that was originally meant to go to 100 (because of course he added an extra bucket), Rose put on a vintage performance. The final score? 101–64. The crowd? Absolutely losing it. The love? All over the place.
What’s even cooler is how much China still rocks with Derrick Rose. Sure, his Adidas collab helped, but it’s his journey—battling through injuries, comebacks, and never giving up—that really connected with people. That kind of story doesn’t need translation.
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And the love? It’s mutual. Rose made it clear he appreciates the fans just as much, sharing how he wants to “chase dreams and share growth.” With the Bulls set to retire his No. 1 jersey soon, it feels like his legacy is only getting stronger.
Why’s Derrick Rose getting his jersey in the rafters?
Well, for starters, the Bulls made it official in January—Derrick Rose’s No. 1 jersey is getting retired next season. That puts him in legendary company alongside Michael Jordan, Jerry Sloan, Bob Love, and Scottie Pippen. The actual ceremony will happen sometime during the 2025–26 season, with details still under wraps. But make no mistake, this one’s been a long time coming.
Now, what makes it even more special is how the news was shared. Bulls President & CEO Michael Reinsdorf gave Rose the word himself during a sit-down in Chicago. And as Bulls Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf put it, “Derrick is both a hometown hero and a symbol of an entire era of Bulls basketball.”
He further added, “Retiring a jersey recognizes a player’s impact beyond on-court achievements. It honors individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the organization and forged deep, lasting connections with fans. It recognizes that emotional bond and the great influence a player has had on the team and organization’s identity. We are proud to add Derrick to the elite group of players—Jerry Sloan, Bob Love, Michael Jordan, and Scottie Pippen—whose jerseys have been officially retired by the Chicago Bulls.” This honor solidifies Rose’s indelible mark on the Bulls’ history, acknowledging not just his statistical brilliance but the emotional connection he forged with the city and its fanbase.
Let’s be real—D-Rose left a mark. Drafted No. 1 overall in 2008, he balled out in Chicago for eight seasons. From becoming the youngest MVP in NBA history to putting up 19.7 points and 6.2 assists per game, his numbers speak loud. That 2010–11 season? Unreal—2,000+ points and 600+ assists. His exceptional individual achievements, culminating in the MVP award, cemented his place as one of the league’s brightest stars during his tenure in Chicago. Only one other Bull ever did that: MJ.
And if you’re wondering about the playoffs? Rose didn’t just show up—he led the Bulls to their first East Finals since ’98. With 27.1 points per game that postseason, he joined LeBron and Jamal Murray in elite under-22 playoff company. So yeah, raising No. 1 to the rafters? Totally deserved.
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