Give Flowers When They’re Due: adidas Basketball & The Chicago Bulls Celebrate The Legendary Career Of Derrick Rose

Source: Courtesy / adidas Basketball

Chicago was the place to be last week (January 2nd through January 4th) as adidas Basketball honored one of their most beloved athletes, Derrick Rose. The weekend was used to celebrate his extraordinary career, his connection to the city, and his ongoing commitment to giving back to the community.

The multi-day tribute included a pop-up flower shop, the premiere of Rose’s heartfelt short film Becoming a Rose, a special alumni basketball game at his alma mater Simeon Career Academy, and a halftime ceremony during the Chicago Bulls game at the United Center. Rose, a former NBA MVP and Chicago native, returned home to commemorate his journey from young hooper to NBA stardom and to reflect on the lasting impact the city has  had on his career. 

On Thursday, Derrick kicked off the weekend with a one-day pop-up flower shop, Rose’s, at Tortoise Supper Club. The event allowed fans to send roses on Derrick’s behalf to loved ones who have made a positive impact on their lives. That evening, Derrick hosted an exclusive  premiere of his short film Becoming a Rose at Soho House Chicago. The film, in collaboration with adidas Basketball, served as a personal thank you to Chicago and the people who have supported his journey. Following the screening, adidas hosted a panel discussion with Derrick where he spoke of his deep appreciation for his hometown and those who contributed to his remarkable career.

Derrick returned to his alma mater, Simeon Career Academy, for the school’s first-ever alumni basketball game on Friday evening. Derrick, alongside other Simeon alumni, faced off against the current varsity team and also welcomed some of his former Chicago Bulls teammates to raise funds for various charitable causes. Saturday was a continuation of celebratory events, with adidas creating a floral art installation at  Clybourn Park where fans were able to visit the special tribute and receive commemorative adidas x Derrick Rose merchandise. It was a heartfelt moment for both fans and the city, encapsulating Derrick’s deep connection to Chicago.

The weekend culminated in a special halftime ceremony at the Chicago Bulls’ home game against the New York Knicks at the United Center. The ceremony paid tribute to Derrick’s contributions to both the city of Chicago and the basketball community. Congrats to Derrick Rose on getting the flowers he very much so deserves. Check out footage from the jam-packed weekend below!