From the streets of Los Angeles that forged Kobe Bryant’s ‘Mamba Mentality’ to the gritty determination of people within the city of Detroit that fueled Isiah Thomas’ relentless drive, the connection between the place that players call home runs deep. Now a revelation from Derrick Rose sheds light on how the Windy City itself played a pivotal role in creating one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

In the recent episode of the Club 520 Podcast, DJ Wells asked Derrick Rose about growing up in Chicago, a city that admired Michael Jordan. “MJ wouldn’t be MJ if he played anywhere else but Chicago for his pro career. He would have been a great player anywhere else but in Chicago, he became the ‘Black Cat.’ He became MJ in Chicago just because of the strength of the culture that is in Chicago and its cultures everywhere, like what the basketball culture is just strong,” Rose said on the podcast.

The streets of Chicago have long been a crucible for basketball talent. In the 80s, the basketball scene was vibrant in that place with the rise of players like Artis Gilmore and Reggie Theus. However, the Bulls fans were looking for a championship win so when they saw Jordan in his elite form, they quickly became devoted followers of him. And why shouldn’t they? After all, six NBA rings are no joke.

Though he had two short retirements, Jordan achieved a lot during his 15-year career. And a testament to his achievement lies in the 1987-88 season where he cemented himself as a formidable force by winning the MVP, Defensive Player of the Year as well as the scoring title. Further, he averaged 35.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 3.2 steals and 1.6 blocks per game. But, wait! There is more. That particular season, he appeared in 82 games, shooting 53.5% from the field and 84.1% from the free throw line. The dude really outdid himself!

Moving on, Rose, who was a native of Chicago, knew the basketball scene of the place and had seen Jordan play since his childhood. Describing the same experience and what he learned from Chicago’s basketball culture while growing up, the 36-year-old said, “It’s pressure. It’s lot of pressure. Nah, I gotta talk for Chicago because a lot people when they talk for Chicago, they always mention like the bad s**t.”

Moreover, there have been instances when the former point guard stated that His Airness was the main source of his inspiration. Rose even followed the path that Jordan had taken as he began his NBA journey in 2008 when he was selected by the Chicago Bulls as the first overall pick. The inspiration that he got from MJ helped him to clinch the MVP at the age of just 22. “MJ talked s*** sometimes, but it’s like the fear of waking him up…Who’s gonna break first? Imma try to break you first before you get to me. And I felt like that’s what made my competitive edge push me to a high level, because I was willing to do anything on that court to win that game, and that’s what people saw from my rookie year all the way to when I won my MVP,” said Rose once.

As we reflect on Rose’s revelations, it becomes clear that greatness in the NBA is not simply a product of individual talent, but a complex interplay between player and place. However, did you know what motivated Rose to perform better?

The time when Derrick Rose visited Michael Jordan’s house

The former NBA MVP had once revealed an important moment in his childhood that had ignited his passion for the game. During a visit to Michael Jordan’s home, a young Rose was captivated by the legendary player’s presence and dedication. But why did Rose visit Jordan’s house?

While growing up in Chicago, he had the luck to be friends with His Airness sons, Jeffrey and Marcus. Once both of them had invited Rose to their house, which left the young point guard mesmerized to see what the retired Bulls legend did in Highland Park residence. “That whole time, I watched him (Jordan) every second while I was there,” said Rose.

Moreover, while going back home after visiting the GOAT’s house, young Rose had promised himself that he would become like Jordan. “My mom gonna live decent. Whatever I gotta do, I gotta do it. I promised myself that night that I was gonna get on a mission. And me seeing that, with MJ giving me that opportunity, it let me manifest my dreams from what I saw,” said Rose.

Rose’s admiration for Jordan was evident throughout his career. He often cited Jordan as his idol, and his playing style was influenced by the legendary Bulls player. This encounter became a turning point in his young career, fueling his determination to reach the highest levels of the game.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger