Almost every NBA fan knows that on Sept 26, 2024, Derrick Rose, one of the most influential athletes of his generation, retired from professional basketball with a nostalgic and sad feeling. Starting from those glorious moments, including winning the 2011 NBA MVP award, to possibly one of the low points of most basketball fans- the series of injuries that hampered his career. A space exists in the heart of his beloved friend Taj Gibson, a long-time teammate of Derrick Rose, who shared the emotional scar that Rose’s retirement left on him.

“It brought tears to my eyes,” Gibson shared. “I remember us being young, going over to each other’s house thinking about life and putting it together. It hurt, man. It hurt.” Gibson and Rose were drafted just a year apart, with Rose going first overall in 2008 and Gibson following in 2009. The two formed a bond that went far beyond basketball, and their time together in Chicago saw the Bulls rise to prominence once again. They were a dynamic duo on the court, leading the team to several playoff appearances and building a friendship that would last throughout their careers. Let’s take a closer look at Derricks NBA Career.

The end of an era: Derrick Rose’s legacy in the NBA

Even though injuries pretty much messed up what would’ve been a sure Hall of Fame career, Derrick Rose has certainly made his mark. He was awarded MVP in 2011 and became the youngest to win that award, at 22. Throughout his career, Rose, who often has been called explosive and powerful, averaged 17.4 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.2 rebounds. Then came an unlucky injury; a torn ACL during the first round of the 2012 NBA Playoffs ended everything. With it went the title hopes for the Bulls but also the paths that Derrick would have yet to walk as a player. He stood up, dusted himself off and went back to playing the game, becoming an inspiration for millions of fans along the way.

Even then, Gibson and Rose stayed pretty tight the whole time out, reuniting with the Minnesota Timberwolves and then again with the New York Knicks after Chicago. Gibson’s tribute to his friend and former teammate recognized so much more than Rose’s playing talent. “Well, Pooh…It was a pleasure and honor…I’ll see you on the other side, brother…” Gibson’s message played on the scoreboard back in Chicago definitely portrayed the great love and respect Gibson had for his teammate.

Although Rose did little bouncing around throughout various teams, like the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Minnesota Timberwolves, all we got to see were glimpses of his glorious past. Rose’s legacy is made of not just incredible talent but also embodies the determination and impact he had on young players, who were swayed by his relentless urge to run with the ball against all odds.

As he walks off from basketball, his legacy will forever be tied to his tenacity, his MVP season, and his longstanding friendship with teammates like Taj Gibson. The NBA will always know the void left by him, but what Rose did for the game and those around him will be felt long after playing days turn into memories. His path will inspire young athletes moving forward, reminding them that all they need is sheer will and determination to overcome even the biggest obstacles.