Veteran point guard Derrick Rose, who was the 2011 NBA MVP, has officially announced his retirement from basketball at the age of 35.
Rose made the announcement via letter addressed to basketball and titled “Thank You, My First Love,” which he shared on his social media.
“You gave me a gift, our time together, one that I will cherish for the rest of my days. You told me it’s okay to say goodbye, reassuring me that you’ll always be a part of me, no matter where life takes me. Forever yours, Derrick Rose,” the letter says.
The announcement comes just days after Rose was waived by the Memphis Grizzlies despite having one year left on his deals. At the time, reports indicated that Rose was the one who asked to be released from his contract.
Derrick Rose was the first overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft after an impressive collegiate career with the University of Memphis. He was drafted by his hometown team, the Chicago Bulls, and didn’t need much time to establish himself as the franchise’s centerpiece thanks to impressive athleticism and speed.
After winning NBA Rookie of the Year honors in his first year as a pro, Rose proceeded to get selected to the All-Star in three consecutive seasons. His best campaign came in 2010-11 when he averaged 25.0 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists en route to becoming the youngest MVP in the history of the NBA.
However, an ACL tear in the 2012 Playoffs ended up derailing Rose’s career. He was not the same player after returning from injury and would go on to suffer a number of other injuries that prevented him from performing at the highest level.
Rose, who would go on to play for the New York Knicks (two stints), Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons, and the Grizzlies, will retire with career stats of 17.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game.
