Derrick Rose, also known as “D Rose,” recently announced his retirement from the NBA on Sept. 26.

After a 16-year career, the biggest “what-if” questions revolve around whether the Bulls should retire his jersey.

Coming into the league in 2008, Rose instantly became a star, averaging over 15 points per game in his first three seasons and leading the Bulls to their first playoff appearance in years during his rookie year. He was named the MVP of the league in 2011 and recognized as the best player and point guard in the world at the time.

So what happened? 

Since the 2011-12 season, Rose has suffered multiple injuries, starting with a torn ACL in his left knee. Since then, he has never been the same. The world was shocked in 2016 when the Chicago Bulls traded their former MVP to the New York Knicks after he endured multiple injuries and struggled to contribute.

In the seasons following the trade, Rose became largely irrelevant in the NBA, evolving into just another point guard. He was traded from the Knicks to the Cleveland Cavaliers, who subsequently sent him to the Minnesota Timberwolves after one season. On Oct. 31, 2018, Rose made history by recording a 50-point game. This emotional night for fans and people around the league reaffirmed that he was still the same player they knew and loved.

So, should the Bulls retire his number after all he did for the city and the team? Junior Amari Farmer said, “I think they should retire his jersey. He’s been the best player for the franchise since Jordan and he got an MVP with them, and he’s a hometown hero.” Other people seem to share this sentiment. Junior Charles Jones added, “Yes, they should retire his jersey. He was the youngest to win an MVP, and he did it in a Bulls jersey. He probably would’ve won a championship with the Bulls if it weren’t for injuries. He also boosted the Bulls franchise overall.”

The question remains: How do we honor a player whose career was marked by both dazzling highs and heartbreaking lows? Rose’s legacy goes beyond statistics, it embodies resilience and the spirit of Chicago. After recently retiring, and with Rose being a Chicago legend, it’s time to recognize his impact. The Chicago Bulls should not just consider retiring his jersey but continue to celebrate a player who improved the game as a whole and captured the hearts of fans everywhere.

I believe the Bulls should retire Rose’s number for all he did for the city and the franchise, bringing hope and a winning mentality back. After Michael Jordan, Rose is the face of the franchise. His number should be up in the rafters.