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Derrick Rose Gives Back To His High School Basketball Team, In Partnership with Adidas

Lawrence Andrew Fernandezby:Lawrence Fernandez•12/11/24•

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Derrick Rose
Memphis Grizzlies guard Derrick Rose (23) during team introductions before their March 2024 game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center. (© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images)

After wrapping up his 16-year NBA career, Derrick Rose lends his platform to develop the next generation of basketball stars. The 2011 NBA Most Valuable Player is starting his advocacy with his high school squad in cooperation with Adidas.

The sports apparel company named Simeon Career Academy the first Adidas Basketball “Rose School.” In addition to providing uniforms featuring Rose’s signature logo, the three-time NBA All-Star and Adidas will provide the players with opportunities for personal and athletic growth.

“Derrick Rose’s journey began in high school at Simeon Career Academy, where he built the foundation for his career. His Simeon experience laid the groundwork for the legacy he continues to build. Together, we’re proud to announce Simeon as the first Rose school, continuing our mission to inspire and create opportunities for the next generation,” Adidas Basketball stated in their Instagram post announcing this partnership.

Rose played for Simeon from 2004 to 2007. He sat out the 2003 season even if then-coach Bob Hambric invited him to play for the varsity team as a freshman. Throughout Rose’s time at Simeon, the Wolverines won Class AA state championships in 2006 and 2007. Those victories made Simeon the first Chicago Public Schools team to win back-to-back state titles.

Derrick Rose also has two All-State mentions and multiple All-American selections from EA Sports, McDonald’s, Parade Magazine, and USA Today. Likewise, Rose ended his high school basketball career with a 120-12 record, putting them among nationally ranked teams. He also had his jersey number 25 retired, along with the late high school basketball legend Benji Wilson.

Meanwhile, the Wolverines finished the 2023-24 Illinois high school basketball season with a 17-14 record. Their final game was a loss to Curie in the Illinois High School Association Class 4A sectional finals. This year, they’ve started their campaign with three consecutive victories, earning them the 22nd spot in the Illinois On3 Composite Team Rankings.