Imagine being celebrated by your hometown team and admired by one of basketball’s biggest legends. Derrick Rose is living that dream. As most fans would know by now, the Chicago Bulls recently announced they’ll retire D-Rose’s iconic No. 1 jersey. But the moment became even sweeter when Allen Iverson, one of Rose’s idols from the league, stepped in to show him some love.

Iverson took to Instagram to share a heartfelt tribute, posting a photo of himself hugging Rose.

“Congrats lil bro @drose on an incredible career and getting that jersey up in the rafters! You’ve earned every bit of respect, and I’m proud to see you get the recognition you deserve. Your impact on the game is forever! #Legend #Respect,” Iverson wrote in the caption of the post.

Fans would know this is the kind of recognition that hits differently. Rose, a Chicago native, has always been a favorite son of the Windy City. Drafted first overall by the Bulls in 2008, he quickly dazzled fans with his explosive style of play. And winning Rookie of the Year was just the beginning for him.

Then came 2011—a year no Bulls fan will ever forget. At just 22 years old, Derrick Rose became the youngest player in NBA history to win the MVP award. His electrifying performances led Chicago to a league-best 62 wins and an Eastern Conference Finals appearance. For a moment, it felt like the Bulls were unstoppable. But as we know it, sports can be cruel.

The following season, the 3x All-Star and the Bulls were flying high again until disappointment struck in the playoffs. A devastating ACL injury sidelined Rose. Thus altering the course of his career and the team’s future. Still, his impact during those peak years left a legacy that continues to inspire.

Seemingly, a reason why Bulls President Michael Reinsdorf felt it was time to give Rose the ultimate franchise honor. Sharing the news with Rose personally, Reinsdorf explained the decision:

“Retiring a jersey recognizes a player’s impact beyond on-court achievements. It honors individuals who have made extraordinary contributions and forged deep connections with fans. Derrick’s talent was extraordinary, but his humility always stood out.”

Reinsdorf’s words hit home. With this move, Rose will now join an exclusive group of Bulls legends like Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen, whose jerseys hang in the rafters. It’s no surprise that Iverson would have admiration for such a player.

Allen Iverson showed “hood love” to Derrick Rose

For D-Rose, the dream of meeting his hero came true when he crossed paths with Iverson during his time with the New York Knicks. If you’ve followed the former Bulls star’s journey, you’d know how much Iverson meant to him.

Not just as an NBA icon, but as the blueprint for playing with heart, grit, and fearlessness. D-Rose, as per ClutchPoints, once shared how Iverson gave him the “freedom” to embrace his reckless, aggressive style during his early days with the Bulls.

The 3x All Star believed they both attacked the rim in ways that set them apart from other guards. Thus making their connection all the more special. So when Rose finally met Iverson, he described it as “hood love.” No words were needed—the image of them hugging that went viral back then spoke volumes. And now the heartfelt message from AI reflects the bond still runs deep.