Bulls finally arrive at Derrick Rose decision years in the making

The Bulls announced on Derrick Rose Night that they would hand the franchise icon some well-deserved recognition as one of the greatest players in Chicago basketball history.

The organization will retire Rose's No. 1 jersey and hang it from the rafters next season, according to Shams Charania of ESPN.

Chicago Bulls to retire Derrick Rose jersey

It makes sense that the Bulls would announce their decision on a night celebrating Rose's career, but it's an obvious decision that's been a long time coming.

Rose, who played his high school basketball at Chicago's Simeon Career Academy before moving on to play one season in college with the Memphis Tigers and then back home after becoming the No. 1 pick in the 2008 draft, played the first eight seasons of his NBA career with the Bulls.

He was the 2008-09 NBA Rookie of the Year and became the youngest player in league history to win the MVP when he did it in 2011 at age 23.

Injuries derailed what would have been a sure-fire Hall of Fame career and potentially the next Bulls dynasty.

Rose's jersey will be only the fourth retired by the franchise following Jerry Sloan, Bob Love, Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen.

The Reinsdorf family recognized Rose's connection to the city and what he meant to the Bulls franchise in a statement published by The Athletic:

"“His connection with Chicago was undeniable when he was here, and it has only grown stronger and more profound over time. It will be an emotional moment to see Derrick watch his jersey go up into the rafters, surrounded by the family, friends and fans who mean so much to him.”"

Michael Reinsdorf

"“Derrick is both a hometown hero and a symbol of an entire era of Bulls basketball. Retiring a jersey recognizes a player’s impact beyond on-court achievements. It honors individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the organization and forged deep, lasting connections with fans.""

Jerry Reinsdorf