Derrick Rose entered the league as the number one pick in the 2008 NBA Draft. The explosive point guard quickly made a name for himself in the league, earning accolades from fans, analysts, and players alike, including the legendary LeBron James.
This acknowledgment from the basketball icon came after a game between the Cavaliers and Bulls in early December 2009. After that matchup, "King James" even suggested the idea of teaming up with D-Rose in the future.
"He's a great point guard and a great player. I love watching Derrick [Rose] play. All he's going to do is get better, and hopefully, in the 2012 Olympics, he can be part of the team, and we'll have some fun," remarked James, per Peoria Journal Star.
LBJ spotted greatness in D-Rose
James is undoubtedly one of the greatest talents in sports history. Dubbed "The Chosen One" from a young age, he entered the league straight out of high school in 2003. Given this background, it's no surprise that LBJ quickly recognized Rose's potential.
The Memphis Tigers product had already showcased his talent during college and in his ROY-winning debut season in the NBA. A sophomore at the time of Bron's statement, he seamlessly continued to excel in the coming months.
One standout moment was Rose's performance in mid-January 2010 against the Wizards. Chicago's hometown hero scored 37 points, including a thrilling game-winning buzzer-beater in the second overtime. Shortly after, the then-21-year-old earned his first All-Star selection.
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Olympic dreams were shattered
In the following season, D-Rose truly took his game to the next level, averaging 25.0 points, 7.7 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game. Many viewed the 6'3" player as the main reason for his team dominating the Eastern Conference, and the league acknowledged this as well. Derrick was named MVP, becoming only the second Bulls player after Michael Jordan to achieve this honor. The third-year man also made history as the youngest player ever to win this prestigious award.
At that time, the 2012 Olympics in London were just a year away. Rose went on to have a stellar 2011-12 regular season. Playing a then-career low of 39 games, he averaged 21.8 points, nearly 8.0 assists, and 0.9 steals per game, earning his second All-Star selection.
However, disaster struck during the first game of the 2012 playoffs when he injured his left knee while jumping, resulting in an ACL tear that required surgery. Despite being nominated , the outstanding point guard unfortunately couldn't participate in the following Olympic tournament.
Injuries once again disrupted his plans, affecting not just him but also LeBron, who had hoped to join forces with his fellow NBA standout. Ultimately, Team USA won gold at the tournament while D-Rose watched from home, marking one of the many regrets of his three-time All-Star career, which came to an end in late September 2024.
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