Bulls to Retire Derrick Rose’s No. 1 Jersey in Upcoming Season
The Chicago Bulls have announced their plans to honor one of the franchise’s most iconic players, Derrick Rose, by retiring his No. 1 jersey during the 2025-26 NBA season. This prestigious recognition celebrates Rose’s outstanding contributions to the team and his enduring impact on Chicago basketball culture. As the youngest player ever to win the NBA’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, Rose’s career exemplifies both remarkable talent and resilience.
A Historic Announcement
The retirement of Derrick Rose’s jersey will make him the fifth player in Bulls history to receive this honor, placing him alongside franchise legends Jerry Sloan (No. 4), Bob Love (No. 10), Scottie Pippen (No. 33), and Michael Jordan (No. 23). The NBA also retired Bill Russell’s No. 6 jersey league-wide in 2022 to commemorate his legacy.
The announcement came during an emotional meeting in Chicago, where Bulls Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf and President Michael Reinsdorf shared the news directly with Rose. “Derrick is both a hometown hero and a symbol of an entire era of Bulls basketball,” said Jerry Reinsdorf. “This honor is about more than just his achievements on the court. It represents the profound connection he built with our fans and his transformative influence on the identity of this franchise.”
Michael Reinsdorf added, “Derrick’s talent was extraordinary, but it was his humility and authenticity that truly set him apart. Watching him lead the Bulls was thrilling, but knowing him as a person was an even greater privilege. His bond with the city of Chicago has only grown stronger over the years, and his jersey retirement will be a powerful celebration of that connection.”
The Rise of a Legend
A native of Chicago, Rose was selected as the first overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, fulfilling a lifelong dream of playing for his hometown team. He made an immediate impact, earning NBA Rookie of the Year honors in 2009. By 2011, Rose’s electrifying athleticism and leadership propelled him to become the youngest MVP in league history at just 22 years old. That same year, he led the Bulls to a league-best 62-20 record and their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 1998.
During his eight seasons with the Bulls, Rose became a three-time NBA All-Star (2010-2012) and was named to the All-NBA First Team in 2011. His career averages of 19.7 points, 6.2 assists, and 3.7 rebounds per game solidified his place as one of the greatest players in franchise history. He ranks third in assists per game and ninth in scoring average among all-time Bulls players.
In his MVP season, Rose achieved a rare feat by recording over 2,000 points and 600 assists, a milestone previously accomplished by only Michael Jordan in Bulls history. Chicago posted an impressive 245-161 (.603) record during Rose’s time on the court, underscoring his ability to elevate the team to elite status.
Postseason Dominance
Rose’s contributions extended to the postseason, where he consistently delivered standout performances. Over 41 playoff games with the Bulls, he averaged 23.7 points, 7.1 assists, and 4.8 rebounds, ranking second in both points and assists in franchise playoff history. His 2011 playoff run was particularly memorable, as he averaged 27.1 points and 7.7 assists while leading the Bulls to the Eastern Conference Finals. That year, Rose joined an elite group of players, including LeBron James and Jamal Murray, as one of only three to record at least 434 points, 123 assists, and 69 rebounds in a single postseason before the age of 23.
A Lasting Legacy
Beyond his accolades, Rose’s story resonates deeply with fans. Born and raised in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, he became a symbol of hope and inspiration for the city. His humility and perseverance through injuries further endeared him to fans, solidifying his legacy as not just a basketball star but a cultural icon.
The jersey retirement ceremony, whose details will be announced at a later date, is expected to be an emotional tribute to Rose’s extraordinary journey. It will serve as a moment for fans, teammates, and the organization to celebrate a player who defined an era of Bulls basketball and left an indelible mark on the sport. For Rose, it will be an opportunity to reflect on a career that transcended the game, leaving a legacy of excellence, resilience, and connection.
