“I Knew”: Dwyane Wade’s Impressive Recognition of Derrick Rose’s Talent Resurfaces After Ex-Bulls Star’s Sudden Retirement

“The kid from Englewood turned into a Chicago legend.” The Bulls franchise made sure that they gave a proper sendoff to one of their own. After all, even he did the same. Derrick Rose used full-page ads in the local newspapers of the six NBA cities he played in. Chicago, New York, Cleveland, Minneapolis, Detroit, and Memphis, and thanked each fan base. Similarly, many former teammates and rivals have since congratulated the 35-year-old. Amongst them is Dwyane Wade, whose previous quotes are trending again.

“I actually saw him in seventh grade… Right away I knew he was a pro. Right away I knew he had the talent to get to this level.” ‘Wade Legacy’ Instagram account shared the quote. The legacy account is known for sharing past Dwyane Wade’s clips and quotes on other players. Another quote from ‘The Flash’ for his former teammate said, “With D-Rose, it was never a question of his talent. It was always about his health. And when he was healthy, everyone saw all the talent.”

Balling since a young age was a fact even another Chicago native, E’Twaun Moore reiterated. He spoke about his experience playing with Rose in middle school. The injury part is what Dwyane Wade witnessed firsthand when he teamed up with Derrick Rose. Both shared the court in only 16 games, as Rose picked up an ankle injury in November and was out of action for two months. He eventually made his return in mid-January but was traded in February.

Even though Rose was part of the franchise for a short duration, he still thanked the fans with a full-page advertisement. Before coming to Cleveland, he represented two franchises, New York and the Bulls. For the Knicks, it was the same one-season story, but in the ‘Windy City’, he actually made a lot of heads turn.

He became the youngest MVP in NBA history, winning the honor as a 22-year-old in 2010-11. During the season he averaged 25.0 points and 7.7 assists per game and led the Bulls to a league-best 62-20 record. Also helped them reach the Eastern Conference finals before losing to the Big 3 of Miami. Did you know, Rose, Dwyane Wade and LeBron James could have been teammates much before their time in 2017?

Dwyane Wade was a rock for Rose during the injury with the Cavaliers

“Chicago was on the top of both of our lists. They had to offer two max contracts, and they had a young D Rose.” Dwyane Wade revealed the real possibility of joining his native franchise, alongside LeBron James. Even Rose tried to recruit both in 2010, but only the Miami Heat had enough cap space and that’s where they eventually settled.

Yet, when they actually teamed up again in Cleveland, it filled a lot of hope for ‘Pooh’. But due to injury, during that spell, 3x All-Star contemplated retirement, but had the support from his then teammates. The faces of the franchise at the time were Dwyane Wade and LeBron James, and Wade made sure to voice his support.

Recalling his past injury experience and thinking of bidding adieu, the 3x NBA champion said, “Outside of that, we just want Derrick to be happy, we want him to feel confident in whatever decision he decides to make,” Wade continued. “We’re here for him and we just want him to know that.”

Rose has made another post on Instagram alongside his kids. “My story was never just about me, it was about us. Thank you for being part of my journey. I am forever grateful.” So it seems the former Bulls star is at peace with his decision, and fans and former teammates like Dwyane Wade enjoyed the 3x All-Star performances on the court.

“Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.”