Derrick Rose, the former NBA MVP, announced his retirement on Thursday, ending a 16-year career that was both brilliant and injury-ridden. Rose, who was the top draft pick and won Rookie of the Year in 2009, became the youngest MVP in league history in 2011 while leading the Chicago Bulls. However, severe injuries, including an ACL tear in the 2011-12 playoffs and a torn meniscus, drastically limited his playing time in later seasons.

 

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In a heartfelt Instagram post, Rose thanked basketball, calling it his “first love” and expressing deep gratitude for the game. He said, “You turned the court into my sanctuary… You’ll always be a part of me.” Rose, a three-time All-Star, spent eight seasons with the Bulls before playing for several other teams, including the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Memphis Grizzlies. His final season with the Grizzlies saw him limited to just 24 games.

The Bulls hailed him as a “Chicago legend,” and the Grizzlies praised his contributions, wishing him well in retirement.