Since it was announced last year that Derrick Rose’s jersey would be retired and lifted to the rafters, tonight’s ceremony has been highly anticipated. Fans know that after tonight, five jerseys will hang in the United Center forever, and tonight’s addition might be the most meaningful. As a homegrown product and a perfect embodiment of the city, Rose has always been unanimously easy to root for and a player the entire fanbase loves to endorse, for good reason. Here’s everything that has been overlooked heading into tonight, and the complete breakdown of events that will transpire later this afternoon.
Shout Outs From The Legends
There are currently four jerseys that hang in the rafters of the United Center. Of those four players, the two still alive are Scottie Pippen and Michael Jordan. In support of Derrick Rose’s induction into immortality, both players have reached out, sent public messages to the latest edition of the Bulls’ history, and spoken highly of one of the most electric players to wear the iconic threads.
Michael Jordan has a message for D-Rose 🐐 pic.twitter.com/l1K2hz7Y4C
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 24, 2026
Scottie Pippen has a message for D-Rose 🌹 pic.twitter.com/ZShkiZbLEH
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 24, 2026
In addition to being welcomed by the two fellow members of the franchise’s jersey retirement group, Rose’s family, competitors, coaches, and teammates have also sent messages in support of his massive honor.
Derrick’s family, beloved teammates, and fellow NBA legends sent these messages 🥹 pic.twitter.com/P3zbRFWL32
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 24, 2026
Heartfelt Message From His Son
Derrick Rose Jr., or P.J. Rose, is the only son of Chicago’s former MVP. On what will become one of the most memorable nights of his dad’s life and forever enshrine his historic career in the city they were both raised, here was his message to the Windy City.
A Love Letter to Chicago by PJ Rose.
"Roses need water and sunlight to grow….
But this Rose, needed a City.
A City that believes.
From Englewood to Lakeshore,
In a quiet kid with a loud dream.
A City that raises you with tough love.
Then lifts you up in tough times.
A City… pic.twitter.com/QFUDY0JE2N
— Chicago History ™️ (@Chicago_History) January 24, 2026
Full Schedule Of Events Tonight
What exactly is happening tonight? Often, the franchise holds similar ceremonies before the game or at halftime. In Chicago’s case, they’ll be doing it immediately after the game. The Chicago Bulls will first face the Boston Celtics, looking to extend their winning streak to four games and knock off the second-best team in the Eastern Conference. With special showcases and tribute videos sprinkled throughout, here’s the full breakdown of what’s happening tonight.
Chicago Sports Network will honor one of the most beloved figures in Chicago sports history with a full evening of special programming surrounding Derrick Rose’s jersey retirement on Saturday, January 24, 2026. pic.twitter.com/u666o6K1eQ
— Chicago Sports Network PR (@CHSN_Media) January 23, 2026
Joakim Noah, Taj Gibson, and Kirk Hinrich are already confirmed in the building for tonight’s ceremony. Don’t be surprised to see other teammates, former coaches, and hundreds of hometown characters from Rose’s journey in attendance.
What is your favorite memory of Derrick? 🌹 pic.twitter.com/6AiYf9sXqc
— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 24, 2026
Enjoy tonight’s festivities and share your favorite Derrick Rose memories in the comments!