Last month, Derrick Rose, the youngest player to ever win the NBA MVP award, officially announced his retirement. His former Chicago Bulls teammate, Jimmy Butler, shared his thoughts on Rose’s legacy and his decision to step away from the game.

Butler expressed deep admiration for Rose, highlighting his impact on the game of basketball and his influence on the city of Chicago. “What he’s done for the game, for the city, and for the Bulls organization is something we should all be grateful for,” Butler said.

Reflecting on their time together, Butler spoke highly of the opportunity to play alongside Rose. “I got to compete with him and learn from him as a player and a person,” Butler remarked. “He was the man when I entered the league at 21.”

Butler also emphasized the fear Rose instilled in opponents during his prime. “He put so much fear in so many individuals’ eyes,” Butler recalled.

While Rose’s career was marked by numerous injuries, Butler expressed happiness for his former teammate’s decision to retire on his own terms. “I’m happy for him because he is happy. He’s going on to do whatever he wants to do, but he ended the way he wanted to.”

Rose’s career, which began in Chicago, left an indelible mark on the Bulls and the NBA. As the face of the franchise for many years, his electrifying style of play and ability to dominate on the court earned him the league MVP in 2011.

Butler’s comments underline the respect and admiration that many players and fans have for Rose, despite the challenges he faced throughout his career.

As Rose steps away from the game, Butler and others in the basketball community are celebrating his contributions and the legacy he leaves behind.