“I F–king Love You”: Former Bulls Legend Writes a Humbling Letter to the Chicago Natives

It goes without saying that an NBA star’s first team remains forever dear to him. In most cases, this is the very organization that shows faith and remains ready to invest in the growth of an unknown newbie. For Derrick Rose, it was the Chicago Bulls.

Derrick started his career on a high, winning Rookie of the Year award in 2009. He went on to become the NBA MVP in 2011. The Memphis Tigers’ product did absolute wonders for the Bulls, and it was widely agreed that the city had gotten its Michael Jordan back.

Derrick Rose and his requited love for the Chicago Bulls

The Englewood, Chicago-born player took to Instagram to pen down his deepest respect and concern for the Chicago natives. He wrote, “I love you. I appreciate you. [I] cherish you. I value you. I’m proud of you. Where I’m from people don’t hear that enough. You have to remember it’s not the individual.. it’s the environment mixed with pain and that hood mentality. Where I’m from you can’t show NO real love or empathy.. because where I’m from that’s a sign of weakness.”

He emotionally captured the essence best known and felt by the people of Chicago. The 32-YO expressed, “The system made them that way. They had principles, unity, and they tried to protect us. The dictum was not to divide. We losing Kings everyday. It’s really no one to hate. Don’t fall for the trick shorty. Appreciate yo life. CHICAGO I F–KING LOVE YOU.”

He clearly is very much connected to his roots.

Why did he leave the Bulls, and what’s next for him?

Earlier this year, Joakim Noah backed his theory by claiming that if not for Derrick’s 2011 injury, the NBA title was theirs to be won. Both the former Bulls’ stars had more or less the same fate, as the Bulls traded them to the Knicks later in their career. The three-time All-star Pooh would have never left the Bulls on his own. But they traded him along with Justin Holiday and a second round pick for Jose Calderon, Jerian Grant, and Robin Lopez.

Currently, he again seems to have picked his year 2011 rhythm. He had an average of 18+ ppg at 49% FG, and 5.6 assists this past year with the Pistons. Can he still end up with a ring? Help us know your views in the comments.