Derrick Rose Wants To Play In Chicago

Okay, so I was looking for other stories out there to write about, but damn it, I'm just too excited about the Bulls getting the first pick in the draft. It's all I can really think about at this point (who needs a coach?).

As I said in the earlier post, I'm leaning towards Derrick Rose with the pick. There are plenty of reasons for this. Most importantly than any other, is that I really feel that Rose is a lock. I don't think he's going to fail in the NBA. Then there's the obvious need for the Bulls at the point guard position, and finally, Derrick is a local kid.

Oh, and he wants to be here.

‘‘I grew up in Englewood, played in the Chicago Public League, and it would be nice to make my hometown proud and give my family and friends the opportunity to see me play often,’’ Rose said. ‘‘I come from a very close family, and I have a very special bond with my brother Reggie, who has really helped guide and prepare me throughout my career in AAU, high school and college.’’

Of course, Derrick knows there would be at least one drawback to playing in his hometown, but he's not too worried about it.

‘‘I kind of got used to wearing No. 23, but I know it’s not going to happen in Chicago,’’ he said. ‘‘But that’s a small price to pay for playing in my hometown.

‘‘Every young kid who plays basketball dreams of playing in the NBA. The thought of being drafted by your hometown makes it extra special, especially when your team has a tradition like the Bulls and the great players that have come out of the organization. If it does happen, I promise to come ready and prepared to play, give it everything I have and do whatever I’m asked to do for the team.’’

Another reason I'd like to see Rose in Chicago is that I'm terrified of what might happen if they don't. If the Bulls pass on him for Beasley, then it's a given that the Miami Heat will take Derrick with the second pick in the draft.

So just imagine next April when the Bulls and Heat are playing each other in the playoffs again, and Derrick Rose and Dwyane Wade (seriously, imagine those two in the same backcourt) tear them apart and eliminate them from the postseason. Two Chicago boys coming home to destroy the hopes of the city. I don't want to see this happen.

Man, one ping pong ball falls our way, and I'm already imagining next season's playoffs. Somebody slap me.