There are moments in sports that transcend the final score, moments where emotion, history, and passion collide in an unforgettable tribute. This winter, the Chicago Bulls will honor one such player a hometown hero, former MVP, and a beacon of resilience. On January 24, 2026, following a game against the Boston Celtics at the United Center, Derrick Rose’s No. 1 jersey will be officially retired and raised to the rafters, joining the exclusive company of Michael Jordan (23), Scottie Pippen (33), Bob Love (10), and Jerry Sloan (4).
A Hometown Hero’s Meteoric Rise
When the Bulls selected Derrick Rose with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, they weren’t just choosing a basketball player—they were welcoming back a prodigal son. Rose burst onto the scene with the franchise’s electrifying pace and agility, earning Rookie of the Year honors in 2009. But it was the 2010–11 season that truly cemented his legend. At just 22 years old, Rose became the youngest MVP in NBA history, averaging 25 points, 7.7 assists, and 4.1 rebounds while leading the Bulls to a league-best 62–20 record and a deep run to the Eastern Conference Finals—Chicago’s furthest playoff journey since Michael Jordan’s departure.
Determination Amid Adversity
Rose’s career was marked by both brilliance and heartbreak. A devastating ACL injury in the 2012 playoffs seemed poised to derail his trajectory. Yet even in the face of repeated setbacks, Rose rebounded—reinventing his game, becoming a respected veteran, and even earning first-place MVP votes as late as 2021. His career spanned six teams over 15 seasons, finishing with averages of 17.4 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.2 rebounds across 723 games.
A Legacy Carved in Chicago
The Bulls have not retired a number since Scottie Pippen’s No. 33 in 2005 a 21-year gap. Rose’s upcoming ceremony marks the franchise’s first such tribute in over two decades, underscoring how deeply his contributions resonate with both the organization and the fans.
In announcing the honor, Bulls Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf eloquently praised Rose: “Derrick is both a hometown hero and a symbol of an entire era of Bulls basketball. Retiring a jersey recognizes a player’s impact beyond on-court achievements. It honors individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the organization and forged deep, lasting connections with fans.”
The Ceremony That Will Stop Chicago
Ticket prices for the retirement game have already soared, with even basic seats listing for over $315, solidifying it as the most expensive Bulls game in history testament to Rose’s undying appeal.
Adding a deeply personal, endearing touch, Bulls CEO Michael Reinsdorf reportedly shared with Rose, “nobody’s wearing that No. 1 jersey again unless PJ (Rose’s son) is a Bull. Then he’s wearing that No. 1 jersey. All right? Is that fair?”—a remark that brought Rose to tears and underscored the emotional weight of the moment.
What to Expect on January 24, 2026
A post-game ceremony at the United Center where No. 1 is hoisted to the rafters.
A stunning visual tribute to a player who redefined courage and connection.
A city and fan base united, remembering the joy, heartbreak, and relentless spirit Rose embodied.
A Legacy Written in Heart, Hustle, and Home
Derrick Rose’s journey from Chicago’s South Side to NBA stardom, through crippling injuries and emotional comebacks speaks to the essence of sport itself. His legacy is not just etched in stats or highlight-reel plays; it’s in the hearts of every fan who saw him rise, stumble, and rise again. As the countdown begins to Jersey Retirement Night on January 24, 2026, one thing is clear: Chicago won’t just be honoring a player it will be saluting one of its own.
Stay tuned to the Bulls’ official channels and NBA media for more updates on festivities, exclusive tributes, and how you can be part of this unforgettable celebration.