Chicago Bulls to Host “Derrick Rose Night” on January 4, Honoring Former MVP
CHICAGO – The Chicago Bulls will honor Derrick Rose’s career with a halftime celebration on January 4, when they host the New York Knicks at the United Center, the team announced Friday.
The event, dubbed “Derrick Rose Night,” will take place against the Knicks to allow former Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau—Rose’s longtime mentor—to participate in the tribute. However, the celebration will not include the highly anticipated retirement of Rose’s No. 1 jersey, which he wore during his seven seasons with the Bulls.
Although the Bulls have not officially announced plans to retire Rose’s number, no player has worn No. 1 since Rose’s departure in 2016. The Bulls have previously retired the jerseys of Jerry Sloan (No. 4), Bob Love (No. 10), Michael Jordan (No. 23), and Scottie Pippen (No. 33). Additionally, honorary jerseys have been retired for former coach Phil Jackson and executive Jerry Krause.
Rose, now 36, announced his retirement on September 26 after 15 seasons in the NBA. A Chicago native and Simeon High School alumnus, Rose made history as the youngest player ever to win MVP in 2011, carrying the hopes of the Bulls at just 22 years old. Despite injuries that affected his career, Rose retired as a three-time All-Star who led the Bulls to four playoff appearances.