Derrick Rose, Michael Jordan
Derrick Rose has officially been welcomed into the most exclusive circle in Chicago Bulls history.
As the franchise prepares to raise Rose’s iconic No. 1 jersey into the rafters at the United Center, the hometown hero received recognition from the very figures he will soon stand beside forever. On Saturday afternoon, the Bulls released a video tribute from Michael Jordan, marking a defining moment in Rose’s journey from local prodigy to franchise immortal.
Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest player in NBA history, offered heartfelt praise that underscored what Rose meant to the city and the organization.
“Derrick, congratulations on the retirement of your jersey. Very happy for you,” Jordan said. “You have an unbelievable career. You really represented the city of Chicago, the Chicago Bulls, your family, and yourself very, very well. I’m very proud of you and very happy for your special night. Looking forward to coming to the United Center and seeing your jersey hanging up there with my jersey.”
For Rose, whose career unfolded under intense scrutiny and expectation, that acknowledgment carries enormous weight. Sharing permanent space with Jordan inside the United Center rafters is an honor few players ever approach, let alone achieve.
Jordan’s Message Seals a Full-Circle Moment
Rose grew up in Chicago watching Jordan and the Bulls dominate the NBA throughout the 1990s. Years later, the Englewood native fulfilled his own dream by becoming the face of his hometown franchise, leading Chicago to relevance during one of the most exciting stretches of the post-Jordan era.
While the banner ceremony itself stands as the night’s centerpiece, Jordan’s message adds another layer of significance. Not many players earn praise directly from the standard by which all others are measured. From this point forward, Rose’s legacy will live alongside Jordan’s, not just in memory but physically above the court where Bulls history hangs.
Rose becomes the fifth player in franchise history to receive a jersey retirement, joining Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Bob Love, and Jerry Sloan. He is also the only Chicago native among them, a detail that continues to resonate deeply with fans across the city.
Scottie Pippen Adds His Voice to the Tribute
Jordan was not alone in honoring Rose. Pippen, his longtime teammate and the other cornerstone of the Bulls’ dynasty years, also recorded a message to welcome Rose into the rafters.
“What’s up, Chicago. It’s an honor to be a part of this moment,” Pippen said. “Derrick, congratulations. You represent what it means to be a Chicago Bull. Thank you for giving it everything you had. Thank you for inspiring the next generation. Once a Bull, always a Bull. Come on up with me, brother.”
Hearing from both Jordan and Pippen places Rose in rare company. Their words reinforce why his career, despite adversity and an early ending in Chicago, left a lasting imprint on the franchise.
The ceremony will take place following the Bulls’ matchup with the Boston Celtics, with the celebration airing live on Chicago Sports Network. While neither Jordan nor Pippen is expected to attend in person, the building will still be filled with former teammates, familiar faces, and fans eager to celebrate one of the most meaningful careers in team history.
For Derrick Rose, the night represents more than recognition. It reflects perseverance, hometown pride, and a legacy now permanently etched into Chicago’s basketball history.