Since Derrick Rose’s arrival to the league in 2008, he was never shy to say whatever was on his mind. He never cared about sugar quoting his thoughts or saying what the fans wanted to hear, he kept himself as original as possible. Even if it meant he was the only player not dancing during the Allstar game lineup introduction. Just a kid from Chicago, that’s what fans love about him.
Legacy is just a word, a word most players don’t think about until they’re near their retirement. Derrick Rose’s legacy will be almost as strong as any athlete in Chicago’s history who’s not named Michael Jordan.
Since the Jordan era ended in 1998, there was no life in Chicago basketball. Stadiums would be filled in hopes the Bulls could recreate something special in their rebuilding mode, but fans were left with hallow promises. From bad draft picks to unthinkable trades, Bulls fans were stuck watching the league’s worst perform night after night. Until one day in 2008 the Bulls hit the lottery with just 1.7% chance of winning the number one overall pick.
The Bulls drafted Rose with the first overall pick in the draft. Again, just a kid from Chicago. Rose brought back excitement, thrill, and gave Bulls fans something to brag about again. Rose helped fuel the Bulls in 2009 to one of the greatest playoff series in the history against the defending champs. The epic Rondo vs Rose battle helped spark Rose into becoming an upcoming superstar.
Unfortunately, we live in a “what have you done for me lately” era which makes fans forget what Rose really meant to Chicago. It was never about money, fame, or media coverage. Rose brought back excitement back to Chicago basketball, something that still lasts today. His presence still keeps fans tuned in with his acrobatic layups or his no look passes. No matter how many fans hate on him because he says what is on his mind, no one can deny the excitement that he brought to Chicago that helped bring back life in the Bulls fan base.
So forget about the MVPs, Rookie of the year, or multiple time Allstar appearances, just remember why you’re watching the Bulls today. Remember how every game was meaningless to watch from 1999-2007. Derrick Rose gave you a reason to cheer again, he gave you reason to believe there is a chance to win. Derrick Rose brought back excitement that you could never thank him enough for.
