Like Taj Gibson, Derrick Rose will have been one of Tom Thibodeau's most faithful servants. In Chicago obviously, but also Minnesota and New York, Thibodeau and Rose knew how to get the best out of each, and the current Knicks coach reacted to the announcement of his retirement.
“He was not only a great player, which I saw in his opponents' eyes, but he was also an even better person, teammate, husband and father,” he believes. “The true measure of a man is his ability to face adversity and no one has done it better than him.” Through it all, whether it was the pressure of playing in his hometown, being the youngest MVP in NBA history, or dealing with injuries for three straight seasons, he stood tall , never gave in and always came back. »
For Thibodeau, “It was inspiring to see him grow and move forward no matter what. He is and always will be a very special person. I will cherish the many good memories we had together and look forward to his next chapter. I know he will be great and I wish him the best in his retirement. »
“Brothers for Life”
Same emotion from Joakim Noah, former teammate of Derrick Rose at the Bulls and the Knicks. The two are like brothers in life and “for life”.
“Hope is a powerful emotion, and you have always represented hope, in human form” writes former NBA best defender. “What you meant to your city was evident before you were even drafted. Everyone knew where you were going when they saw you playing Simeon. And when the Bulls had the first pick in 2008, and everyone knew you were coming home, the city had hope.
It was an honor, a privilege and a real pleasure to share the field with you. The memories will never be forgotten. Stories that never end! What I liked most was the way you behaved when the lights were brightest. You were a truly humble warrior. You had the heart of a lion. Quiet, but fiercely competitive. During games, our mothers nervously smoked cigarettes on the sidelines. You always kept a tight circle. You were the youngest MVP with the city on your back, but you were an introvert at heart. Our relationship grew even stronger when we faced adversity.
We never won a title, but as a teammate and friend, I want to tell you that I am grateful to you. I couldn't be more proud to have done it with you, buddy. You deserve the laurels and your respect, Pooh. Thanks for the memories. As we grow older, I continue to draw inspiration from you as a father and husband. You really care for your clan and I'm happy for you, Alaina, PJ, Layla and London. They will have you full time and you will continue to thrive.
I know your next chapter will be bigger than your playing career because you are as authentic and true as possible and that's why you inspire us all. Basketball or no basketball – WE ARE BROTHERS FOR LIFE! »
