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Derrick Rose made the surprising decision to forfeit his entire 2024-25 salary, totaling $3.36 million, with the Memphis Grizzlies after requesting to be waived just before the preseason began, according to a report by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon.

This move marked a significant financial sacrifice for Rose, who had been set to earn a substantial portion of his two-year, $6.5 million contract that he initially signed with the Grizzlies during the 2023 offseason.

Rose’s decision to part ways with the team comes after a season where he saw limited playing time. In the 2023-24 campaign, Rose played in just 24 games, where he posted averages of 8.0 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists in 16.6 minutes per game.

Although his minutes were restricted, Rose, who is represented by former NBA player B.J. Armstrong, still brought a veteran presence to the Grizzlies, contributing both on and off the court as a mentor to the team’s younger players.

The 35-year-old former MVP had returned to Memphis with the hope of contributing to a playoff-contending team, but after a season of limited impact, he ultimately decided it was in his best interest to seek new opportunities.

This move signals a potential shift in Rose’s career, as he evaluates his next steps, whether that involves continuing his NBA journey elsewhere or transitioning into another role within the sport.

Rose’s career has been one of resilience, battling through multiple injuries since his MVP season with the Chicago Bulls.

Despite the setbacks, he has continued to find roles with various teams around the league, including the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons, before his stint with the Grizzlies.

What the future holds for Rose remains to be seen, but his decision to leave Memphis suggests he’s still in control of his career path and willing to make tough choices to position himself for the right opportunities.