Former NBA MVP Derrick Rose announced his retirement in an emotional message on social media Thursday morning.
“Thank you, my first love…” Rose said on Instagram. “You believed in me through the good times and the bad and had my back when everything seemed uncertain. You showed me the true meaning of love.”
He added: “You have transformed the court into my sanctuary, my home where I can freely express myself. It has made all those early mornings and late night sweats we spent together worth it.”
Rose was the No. 1 overall pick in 2008 and quickly became one of the NBA's top players, playing for his hometown Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons and Memphis Grizzlies during his 16-year career.
The famous athlete reportedly took out full-page ads in local newspapers in the six cities where he played in the NBA to thank each fan for their support over the years. ESPN.
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – DECEMBER 15: Derrick Rose (number 23) of the Memphis Grizzlies carries the ball down the court during a game against the Houston Rockets at FedExForum on December 15, 2023 in Memphis, Tennessee. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)
Rose expressed his love for the sport and reflected on his career.
“You reminded me that I can always count on you, and in every moment of doubt, you show me what I'm capable of,” he wrote on Instagram in his retirement statement.
“Even when it seemed like the world was against me, you were there unconditionally by my side, waiting for me to pick you up. You gave me the gift of our time together, something I will cherish for the rest of my life.”
Rose finished his career with averages of 17.4 points, 5.2 assists and 3.2 rebounds.
He ended by writing: “It's okay to say goodbye, you reassured me that no matter where life leads me, you will always be a part of me.”
Rose explained why he decided to end his career at this point.
“I gave it my all in the game and I feel confident in my decision,” Rose told ESPN.
“Basketball was just the beginning for me. Now it's about giving everything I've got for my family, because they deserve it too.” (Related article: Red Sox's James Paxton planning retirement after season-ending calf injury: reports)
As the NBA bids farewell to its beloved star, fans and fellow NBA players have taken to social media to wish Rose well in the future.
