Derrick Rose: The 10 Greatest Moments Of His Career

Future Hall of Famer and former MVP Derrick Rose has announced his retirement today following the Memphis Grizzlies’ decision to cut him . Rose could have had one of the greatest careers of all time if not for the countless injuries (including a torn ACL) that derailed his prime, but that doesn’t take away what the point guard has done over his career. It is time to revisit the 10 greatest moments of Derrick Rose’s NBA career to pay homage to one of the best point guards of his generation.

1. Becoming The Youngest MVP In NBA History (2011)

At just 22 years old, Derrick Rose was crowned the NBA’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the 2010-2011 season, making him the youngest player in league history to win the prestigious award. Rose led the Chicago Bulls to the best regular-season record (62-20) and put up outstanding stats, averaging 25.0 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game. His explosive athleticism, unguardable drives to the basket, and leadership helped revitalize the Bulls, instantly placing him among the league's elite.

This moment signified a generational shift, as Rose became the face of the franchise and one of the NBA’s brightest stars. He was not just a hometown hero, but also an inspiration to countless fans worldwide because the NBA world was waiting for the “next Michael Jordan” to represent Chicago. Rose’s MVP season remains the pinnacle of his career, defined by unmatched speed, agility, and dominance.

2. Game-Winning Three-Pointer vs. Cavaliers (2015 Playoffs)

During the 2015 Eastern Conference Semifinals, Rose delivered a defining moment in Game 3 against LeBron James’ Cleveland Cavaliers. With the game tied and just seconds left, Rose sank a dramatic, buzzer-beating three-pointer off the glass to secure a 99-96 win for the Bulls. The shot capped off a 30-point performance and reignited hopes that Rose could still carry the Bulls deep into the playoffs.

This game-winner not only sent the United Center into a frenzy but also reminded the world of Rose’s innate ability to rise to the occasion, despite battling numerous injuries. It was a heartwarming moment for Bulls fans, who saw their star once again lead the team to a crucial playoff victory against a formidable opponent.

3. 50-Point Game With Minnesota Timberwolves (2018)

Rose’s 50-point performance on October 31, 2018, against the Utah Jazz is one of the most emotional moments in modern NBA history. Having endured years of debilitating injuries and multiple surgeries, Rose’s career was thought to be on the decline. However, in this game, Rose turned back the clock and delivered a vintage performance, scoring a career-high 50 points on 19-31 from the field, including the game-sealing block in the final seconds.

After the game, Rose broke down in tears, reflecting the immense personal and physical struggle he had endured to get back to such a level. This moment was not only a reminder of his immense talent but also a testament to his perseverance, resilience, and love for the game, captivating fans around the world.

4. Rookie Of The Year Award (2009)

In 2009, Rose was named NBA Rookie of the Year after a stellar debut season where he averaged 16.8 points, 6.3 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game. Rose's arrival signaled the beginning of a new era for the Bulls, as he quickly established himself as the team’s franchise cornerstone. His elite ball-handling, court vision, and ability to penetrate defenses made him a nightmare for opponents, leading the Bulls to their first playoff appearance (which went to seven games) in his tenure.

Rose’s Rookie of the Year season was the foundation for his meteoric rise, as he became one of the most exciting young players in the NBA. It was clear from the beginning that he was destined for greatness, with the basketball world taking notice of the Chicago native’s incredible potential.

Related: Derrick Rose Says His Mom Had Only $20 To $50 To Spend On All Four Kids For Two Weeks

5. Historic Performance In First Playoff Series vs. Celtics (2009)

In his very first NBA playoff series, Derrick Rose delivered one of the greatest rookie playoff performances ever. Against the defending champion Boston Celtics in the 2009 first round, Rose averaged 19.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 6.4 assists over seven games. In Game 1, he marked his playoff debut with 36 points and 11 assists, leading the Bulls to a thrilling overtime victory.

The series became an all-time classic, featuring multiple overtime games and jaw-dropping plays from Rose, who went toe-to-toe with the likes of Paul Pierce, Ray Allen, and Rajon Rondo. While the Bulls eventually lost the series in seven games, Rose’s performances announced his arrival as a future superstar and one of the league’s brightest young talents.

6. Signing The $94 Million Extension With Chicago (2011)

In December 2011, Derrick Rose signed a five-year, $94 million contract extension with the Chicago Bulls, solidifying his position as the franchise player. This deal, coming on the heels of his MVP season, was a sign of Chicago's commitment to Rose as their long-term leader and symbolized his ascension into the upper echelon of NBA stars.

This extension was significant because it reflected the Bulls’ confidence in Rose’s ability to lead them to multiple championships. At the time, Rose’s future seemed limitless, and the massive contract represented both a reward for his incredible early success and an investment in his potential to bring another title to Chicago.

7. All-Star Game Starter  (2012)

Being named a starter for the 2012 NBA All-Star Game was a special moment for Derrick Rose because he would be alongside some iconic stars beside him. Rose, who grew up in Chicago’s tough Englewood neighborhood, was embraced by Florida fans and represented the city on the national stage as one of the NBA’s best players.

This All-Star appearance was a culmination of his meteoric rise and symbolized the pride NBA fans felt for one of the best talents ever. While the game itself was an exhibition, Rose’s selection as a starter was a meaningful achievement. It was also iconic to see Rose keep a straight face during the All-Stars introduction while fellow All-Stars, including LeBron James and Dwight Howard, danced through it.

8. Making The All-NBA First Team (2011)

Alongside his MVP award, Derrick Rose was also named to the All-NBA First Team in 2011, a significant accolade that cemented him as one of the top five players in the league. Joining the likes of LeBron James, Dwight Howard, and Kobe Bryant, Rose’s inclusion on this elite team highlighted his impact on the game during his peak.

Being recognized among the best players in the world was a testament to Rose’s dominance as a point guard. His ability to score, distribute, and lead the Bulls as a floor general was unparalleled at the time, and making the All-NBA First Team was a reflection of his excellence during that MVP campaign.

9. Comeback Player Of The Year (2019)

While Rose never officially won the NBA’s official “Comeback Player of the Year” award, his resurgence during the 2018-19 season with the Timberwolves and Pistons was seen by many as a “comeback” story for the ages. After dealing with years of injuries that threatened to derail his career, Rose found a second wind, averaging 18.0 points and 4.3 assists per game in a sixth-man role for Minnesota .

The point guard finished 6th in the Sixth Man of the Year voting and 8th in the Most Improved Player of the Year voting, marking how he could deliver in a new role. His newfound ability to adapt his game, becoming a reliable scorer off the bench rather than the high-flying superstar he once was, earned him respect throughout the league.

10. Memorable Stint With The Pistons And Knicks (2021)

Derrick Rose found another chapter in his career with the Detroit Pistons and later reunited with the New York Knicks . While with the Pistons, Rose became a reliable veteran presence, averaging 14.2 points and 4.2 assists during the 2020-2021 season, demonstrating his ability to still contribute at a high level despite no longer being the explosive MVP version of himself. His performances with Detroit showed his adaptability, leading to his eventual trade to the Knicks for a second stint under coach Tom Thibodeau, where he found rejuvenation once again.

With the Knicks, Rose played a key role in leading the team to the playoffs for the first time since 2013. Coming off the bench, Rose became the stabilizing force for a young Knicks squad, averaging 14.9 points and 4.2 assists while bringing leadership and experience. In the playoffs, he elevated his game, including a 30-point performance against the Atlanta Hawks in Game 3, reminding everyone of his ability to shine on the big stage. Amazingly, Rose finished 9th in MVP voting and 3rd in Sixth Man of the Year voting that season.

Related: Is Derrick Rose A Hall Of Famer? (Case Closed)