When Derrick Rose announced his retirement from the NBA, the basketball world lost one of its most electrifying and resilient players. Among the many voices expressing admiration and gratitude for Rose’s career, none was more poignant than that of Tom Thibodeau, the coach who saw Rose’s greatest highs and devastating lows. Thibodeau, who coached Rose in both Chicago and New York, penned an emotional goodbye to the former MVP, marking the end of a unique player-coach relationship that spanned over a decade.
Thibodeau and Rose’s bond dates back to 2010, when Thibodeau took the reins of the Chicago Bulls, guiding the team to one of its most successful runs in recent memory. Under Thibodeau’s leadership, Rose blossomed into the youngest MVP in NBA history during the 2010-11 season, leading the Bulls to the top seed in the Eastern Conference. Thibodeau’s system relied heavily on Rose’s athleticism, quickness, and scoring ability, and together, they seemed destined for greatness.
However, the trajectory of Rose’s career changed dramatically in 2012, when he tore his ACL in the first game of the playoffs. Thibodeau, known for his demanding coaching style, always believed in Rose’s potential to return to his MVP form, but injuries continued to plague the star point guard. Through it all, Thibodeau stood by him, offering support during the difficult recovery periods and giving him opportunities to revive his career.
In his letter, Thibodeau reflected on Rose’s perseverance and strength, qualities that endeared him to fans and teammates alike. “Derrick’s heart and spirit are unmatched,” Thibodeau wrote. “He faced adversity head-on, and no matter the challenges, he kept coming back. That resilience is something everyone can learn from.”
Thibodeau’s tribute also emphasized the personal connection they shared. More than just a coach-player relationship, Thibodeau and Rose shared a mutual trust that transcended the game. When Rose’s career seemed to be winding down after his struggles in Cleveland and Minnesota, Thibodeau once again gave him a lifeline, bringing him to the New York Knicks, where Rose showed flashes of his old brilliance in key moments.
“Derrick is not just a player I coached,” Thibodeau continued. “He’s family. Watching him grow, overcome, and fight through everything life threw at him was inspiring. I’m grateful for every moment we had together on the court, and I know his legacy will live on beyond the game.”
Thibodeau’s emotional farewell captured the essence of Derrick Rose’s career: a story of triumph, adversity, and undying perseverance. While Rose may no longer grace the NBA hardwood, his impact on the game—and on those who had the privilege of coaching him—will be felt for years to come. For Thibodeau, Rose’s retirement marks the end of an era, but the legacy of their partnership remains one of the most enduring narratives in recent NBA history.