The Chicago Bulls have announced that Derrick Rose’s No. 1 jersey will be officially retired during the 2025-26 NBA season, cementing his legacy as one of the franchise’s all-time greats. Rose will become the fifth Bulls player to receive this prestigious honor, joining the ranks of basketball legends like Michael Jordan, Bob Love, and Scottie Pippen.
Rose, affectionately known as “Pooh”, “D-Rose” and the “Windy City Assassin,” has deep roots in Chicago. Born and raised in the city, Rose’s basketball journey took him from Simeon Career Academy to the University of Memphis, before being drafted first overall by his hometown Bulls in 2008.
His impact on the Bulls was immediate and profound. He won the NBA Rookie of the Year award in 2009 and made history in 2011 by becoming the youngest player ever to win the NBA Most Valuable Player Award at just 22 years and 7 months old.
A Career of Highs and Lows
Rose’s career with the Bulls was marked by incredible highs and devastating lows. He led the team to 62 wins and the Eastern Conference Finals in his MVP season, rekindling hopes of a new Bulls dynasty. However, a series of injuries, including a devastating ACL tear in 2012, altered the trajectory of his career.
Despite the setbacks, Rose’s ability to fight through and connection to Chicago never wavered. Bulls Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf emphasized this bond, stating, “Derrick is both a hometown hero and a symbol of an entire era of Bulls basketball”.
A City’s Enduring Love
The announcement of Rose’s jersey retirement has been met with enthusiasm from fans and the basketball community. No Bulls player has worn the number 1 since Rose was traded in 2016, a testament to his enduring legacy.
In addition to the jersey retirement, Rose has received honors from his hometown mayor, further solidifying his status as a Chicago icon. These accolades underscore the deep connection between Rose, the city of Chicago, and its people. The Chicago Mayor’s Office said this,
Growing Home’s new pollinator garden is now officially named after Derrick Rose!
In recognition of Derrick Rose’s dedication to his community in Englewood, his remarkable career, and his ongoing impact, we were also proud to present him with a proclamation declaring January 4th, 2025, as D Rose Day.
In recognition of Derrick Rose’s dedication to his community in Englewood, 
Derrick’s legacy goes beyond basketball. He’s an inspiration, a true hometown hero, and a champion for healthy communities, and giving back. To hear him say it, “Together, we’re growing a brighter future!”
As the Bulls prepare to raise Rose’s jersey to the rafters of the United Center next season, fans eagerly await the ceremony that will immortalize the “Windy City Assassin” in Bulls history. The details of the event will be announced at a later date, but it promises to be a momentous occasion for Rose, the Bulls organization, and the city of Chicago.
