Living Legend: The Best Moments From Derrick Rose’s Jersey Retirement Night

Last night, the Chicago Bulls hosted the Boston Celtics at the United Center. It was also the night they’d add the fifth retired number in their franchise’s history to the rafters, Derrick Rose’s iconic number one. The entire night was filled with memories of Rose’s playing days; the stands were packed with hundreds of people associated with the former MVP throughout his whole life, and the energy was special from start to finish. Beginning with the game, the Bulls drilled a go-ahead three-point field goal with .2 seconds remaining to capture their fourth consecutive victory. This was a storybook finish that would kickstart a legendary night. Here were all the best sights and moments from the hometown kid’s jersey retirement ceremony.

Cardiac Bulls Strike Again

It would be remiss not to mention the game that preceded the awe-inspiring presentation last night. While the outcome may not have mattered, and wouldn’t have changed the way Chicago received or reacted to Rose’s jersey being lifted into the rafters, it felt like a perfect ending to an electric career. With the arena full of players and fans from previous generations, the current roster showed glimpses of the same grit and heart that the D-Rose era displayed nightly, and pulled off the hard-fought win against a top-tier opponent. Kevin Huerter was the hero tonight, drilling a corner three-point shot to send Boston home empty-handed.

KEVIN HUERTER HIT A GAME WINNER AND GOT THIS POSE OFF ON DERRICK ROSE'S JERSEY RETIREMENT NIGHT pic.twitter.com/xW5eTkwyDK

— Hater Report (@HaterReport_) January 25, 2026

Roses In The Lockers, Exclusive Interview Pregame

Before the game or the ceremony, Rose gifted each player on both teams roses from his own flower shop in Chicago—a classy and unique nod from the three-time All-Star guard. Many of the Bulls players showed up to the arena in outfits that represented or gave a subtle shout to the former point guard, including Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey.

Derrick left roses from his flower shop in both team locker rooms before tonight's game pic.twitter.com/GKh2nF8nVi

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 24, 2026

Before the game, an interview was released featuring CHSN’s K.C. Johnson and the man of the hour. Rose spoke about the privilege and honor of representing his city, the importance of embodying the traits of where he is from, and being an inspiration for generations to come. He’s one of the best stories of homegrown athletes for the Windy City, and one that the fanbase is forever proud to see his legacy take its place in history.

"It's me. I am the city. It's so much courage you got to show just being here."@KCJHoop sat down with Derrick Rose ahead of his No. 1 being lifted up into the United Center rafters.

Catch more of the interview tonight on Bulls Countdown Live starting at 6:30pm. pic.twitter.com/889ycRwUTv

— Chicago Sports Network (@CHSN__) January 24, 2026

Derrick Rose’s Speech Moved Many To Tears

In many ways, Derrick Rose is closer to the fans in Chicago than Michael Jordan. While nobody is arguing that Jordan has more talent, global influence, and popularity than Rose, he’s not a Chicago-born kid. Rose was a fan favorite and hometown hero from the day he was drafted with the first overall pick in 2008. What was once a 1.7% chance to land the first draft choice and bring him home to the franchise became an MVP, the furthest playoff run since Jordan, and a jersey hanging in the rafters. In one of the longest and most emotional acceptance speeches seen in sports, Rose’s entire monologue is worth listening to, and good luck not getting emotional.

Derrick Rose's full jersey retirement speech: pic.twitter.com/ohyibVH7DT

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) January 25, 2026

Showing Love To Thibs

One thing that Rose made sure to mention during his speech was his full support of former head coach Tom Thibodeau, who was there for five seasons with him, beginning with his MVP season. Thibs joins a long list of shout-outs to anyone who helped the Chicago icon to where he’s currently at. Still, the most easily recognizable connection tonight was between the roster and coaching staff of that legendary Bulls era. It was a special night for a special player, a special person, and a special organization.

Derrick Rose on people blaming Tom Thibodeau for his injury:

“I’m here to say, fuck that."
pic.twitter.com/paUATmdWTh

— Dave (@davebfr) January 25, 2026

Thibs had an endorsing message in return, calling for his former point guard’s next stop to be in the Hall of Fame.

"He showed everyone what it takes to be a great Chicago Bull and a great man…The next stop, in my opinion, is the Hall of Fame––and there is no doubt about that. Thank you Derrick…Love you"

–– Tom Thibodeau pic.twitter.com/dsIpHvsuRC

— New York Basketball (@NBA_NewYork) January 25, 2026

Chicago’s own, from the concrete to the rafters. Last night was one of the most unforgettable nights in the history of the Bulls organization. And now, Derrick Rose is forever immortalized.

Came from nothing.

Proved the doubters wrong.

Inspired a generation.

The boyhood dream has become reality.

Derrick Rose will be remembered forever. pic.twitter.com/o2QCObmqDY

— DRoseMuse (@DerrickRoseMuse) January 25, 2026