Derrick Rose Opens Up About NBA Injuries, the former NBA MVP and fan favorite, recently opened up about the physical and emotional toll his career took due to recurring injuries. Speaking at the 2025 Adidas Eurocamp, Rose offered a rare and heartfelt glimpse into how he handled the setbacks that defined much of his NBA journey.
The ACL Injury That Changed Everything
Rose’s career reached its peak in 2011 when, at just 22, he became the youngest player ever to win the NBA MVP award. But just as quickly as he rose, tragedy struck. During Game 1 of the 2012 playoffs against the Philadelphia 76ers, Rose tore his ACL — an injury that would alter the course of his career forever.
“It was tough,” Rose admitted. “I went from being the MVP to sitting on the sidelines for a whole year. It felt like I lost control of my own story.”
Asking the Hard Questions
While most players might seek medical clarity after such a devastating injury, Rose revealed something unexpected — he never asked his doctors why it happened.
“I never asked the doctor why my injuries were happening,” Rose shared. “They’re just giving me a reason. But I asked God that numerous times. After a while, I stopped asking. I knew I had to roll with the punches, and that’s part of being from Chicago.”
His words reflect not only personal pain but also the mental resilience required to continue playing at the highest level.
From Chicago to the World: A 15-Year Journey
Despite the odds, Rose didn’t walk away. He fought through multiple knee surgeries, meniscus tears, ankle issues, and other setbacks. Over 15 seasons — from 2008 to 2024 — he played for teams like the Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Minnesota Timberwolves.
He finished his career averaging
- 17.4 points
- 5.2 assists
- 3.2 rebounds
shooting efficiently at 46/32/83 .
Lessons from the Streets of Chicago
Rose credited his upbringing in Chicago for shaping his mindset. Growing up in tough neighborhoods taught him how to handle pressure and adversity
“I feel like if I can make it out of here, I can make it anywhere,” he said. That same mentality helped him survive the rollercoaster of professional basketball — especially during his darkest moments.
A Legacy Beyond Stats
Though Rose never won a championship, his story is one of perseverance, pride, and passion. Fans remember him not just for his explosive dunks or clutch plays, but for his ability to keep fighting even when the world thought he was done.
As he steps further into retirement, Rose remains a symbol of resilience — and his message continues to inspire the next generation of athletes.