NBA MVP Derrick Rose is officially retiring from the NBA after 16 seasons, the former Chicago Bulls player announced on Instagram Thursday morning.
“You believed in me through the ups and downs, you were constant when everything else seemed uncertain,” the message read. “You showed me what love really meant.”
The posts show Rose, 35, sitting at a desk and reading his statement from a full-page newspaper ad. According to reports, Rose took out full-page ads in newspapers in six different cities — Chicago, New York, Cleveland, Minneapolis, Detroit and Memphis — to thank each fan base.
The legend of Rose’s reading seemed philosophical. “The psychological hypothesis automatically provides the means to realize the dream wish,” she said.
Rose’s full statement can be found below:
Thank you, my first love.
You believed in me through thick and thin, you were consistent when everything else seemed uncertain. You showed me what love truly meant. You made the field my sanctuary, a home where I could express myself freely. You made every morning and night together worth every drop of sweat. You reminded me that I could always count on you, that in every moment of doubt, you would show me what I was capable of. You introduced me to new places and cultures that a kid from Chicago could never have imagined. You taught me that every loss was a lemon and every win was a reason to be grateful. You gave me wisdom that wasn’t just about the game, but about life, discipline, hard work, perseverance. You showed me that passion is something to be cherished, making sure I put my heart into every dribble, every shot, every play. You supported me even when the world seemed against me, unconditionally, waiting for me to come get you. You gave me a gift, our time together, a gift that I will cherish for the rest of my days. You told me it was okay to say goodbye, reassuring me that you will always be a part of me, no matter where life takes me.
Forever yours,
Derrick Rose
Rose, a point guard from Englewood, was drafted first overall by the Bulls in 2008 and won Rookie of the Year honors in 2008-09. He became the youngest player to win the MVP award in 2010. After eight years with the Bulls, his run ended when Chicago traded him to the New York Knicks in 2016.
As Bulls fans know, Rose has been plagued by injuries for much of his NBA career, having suffered a devastating torn ACL in 2012. He has torn his medial meniscus twice, once in 2013 and again in 2015.
