Last week made it clear just how much Derrick Rose means to Chicago and the Bulls. It’s all leading up to a big moment this Saturday at the United Center: “Derrick Rose Night,” a special event honoring the former star as he officially retires from the NBA.

The night will be packed with emotion and nostalgia. Nearly 30 former players are expected to attend, along with past coaches, including Tom Thibodeau, who will be coaching the visiting New York Knicks. It’s a fitting tribute for the kid from Englewood who rose to become the youngest MVP in NBA history.

Whether it’s a heartfelt video tribute, a jersey retirement, or simply strengthening the bond between Rose and the Bulls, there’s no doubt he deserves every bit of it.

Current Bulls forward Talen Horton-Tucker shared his thoughts on Rose, saying, “He’s one of the best players to ever come out of Chicago. This city has produced so many talented basketball players, but what Derrick accomplished puts him on another level.”

Horton-Tucker knows this firsthand. Growing up in Chicago, he followed Rose’s rise closely, even attending Simeon High School—the same school where Rose made his mark.

“As a kid, you look up to someone like that,” Horton-Tucker said. “He showed us that it’s possible to come from where we’re from and achieve great things. I remember watching him play in high school because I was always around basketball. It’s crazy to think I went to Simeon too and made it to the NBA.”

Bulls coach Billy Donovan also reflected on Rose’s legacy. Donovan got an inside view of Rose’s impact through Joakim Noah, who was both Rose’s teammate and Donovan’s player at Florida, where they won two national championships together.

“I always respected Derrick because of what Joakim would say about him as a teammate and a person,” Donovan explained. “Even after his injury, Derrick came back and had an incredible career. He generated so much excitement for the Bulls—and it wasn’t just hype; he was a huge part of their success.”

Donovan firmly believes Rose’s No. 1 jersey deserves to be retired. “Absolutely,” he said. “He represented Chicago in every way—tough, competitive, physical—and the team played like that when he was there.”

Rose’s impact goes beyond basketball. Just like Allen Iverson changed the culture in Philadelphia with the 76ers, Rose had a similar effect on Chicago. Both players brought unmatched energy and pride to their cities—even though they didn’t win a championship.

Derrick Rose may not have lifted the Larry O’Brien Trophy, but his influence on the Bulls and Chicago basketball is undeniable. This Saturday, the city will celebrate not just his achievements on the court but everything he stands for off it as well.