The United Center was a sea of red on Saturday night as the Chicago Bulls officially raised Derrick Rose’s No. 1 jersey to the rafters. Following a high-stakes victory over the Boston Celtics, the focus shifted to a homecoming that felt more like a family reunion than a formal ceremony.
The Englewood native now stands among the greatest legends in franchise history, becoming only the fifth Bull to have his number immortalized, joining Michael Jordan (23), Scottie Pippen (33), Jerry Sloan (4), and Bob Love (10).
Despite a brutal winter storm and sub-zero temperatures, the “Madhouse on Madison” was packed to capacity. Rose remained humble about his legendary impact, shifting the focus from his individual accolades to the collective spirit of his hometown. “This journey was never about me,” Rose said. “It was about creating the synergy that somehow people from the city can pull from. And somehow I was that beacon or that vessel for that — from hooping.”
For Rose, the retirement ceremony wasn’t just a personal milestone; it was a tribute to the community that supported him through every peak and valley. Last year, he expressed a desire for this moment to serve as a wider celebration of the city, and on Saturday, he stood by that vision.
“It was about everybody that found ways to come to my games,” Rose said. “That somehow, we had some type of vibration that connected. … It is no coincidence that all this is going on and the people that watched me play showed up today.”
The evening was a star-studded affair, with former teammates Joakim Noah, Taj Gibson, and Kirk Hinrich standing by his side as video tributes from Michael Jordan and LeBron James played on the Jumbotron.
Beyond the hardwood, the United Center atrium transformed into an immersive experience featuring “Rose’s Flower Shop” and an art gallery showcasing work from students in the After School Matters program.
As the No. 1 banner finally reached its permanent home, the rafters shook with a final, deafening “MVP” chant. It was a fitting conclusion for the man who proved that a kid from Englewood could reach the pinnacle of the basketball world.
Derrick Rose inspired Chicago as a hometown hero, bringing hope to the Bulls, battling injuries, and playing every game with heart. Beyond the stats, his prime was one of the most explosive and electrifying stretches from any guard. Love this for him.pic.twitter.com/ATMHfm4sQM
— Blue Devil Voices (@DukeEchoes) January 25, 2026
