Derrick Rose’s Flower Shop: A Hit With Fans Ahead of Bulls’ Tribute Night
On a chilly Thursday, long-time Derrick Rose fans started lining up for the opening of his Rose’s Flower Shop at Tortoise Supper Club downtown. Even in 35-degree weather, the line for this Chicago-born NBA star’s pop-up shop stretched from the Dearborn Bridge down Kinzie to the shop’s doors on State Street. They were bundled up in their heavy coats and sipping hot drinks as they eagerly waited for noon when the doors would open for a chance to meet the NBA star.
When noon hit, a security guard came out to give quick instructions to the first group before they headed inside. Once they were in, event host Norman Hutchinson greeted everyone and gave them the rundown on the "D. Rose Experience." "Right over there is the flower shop," Hutchinson said. "Derrick Rose wanted to give back to his fans, so when you go in, you can pick four roses, arrange them however you like, and send them to someone you care about. It’s all thanks to D. Rose wanting to give back to Chicago."
Once you assemble your flower arrangement and give the floral designer the address to send your flowers to, customers get to head over to the other side of the room, where you’ll meet the man and the florist of the hour—D. Rose. Fans got a chance to chat with him and take a special Polaroid picture with him to take home as a keepsake.
One fan, Laronze Hardie, shared a deeply personal connection to the event. "I’m originally from Chicago, 83rd Street. When my daughter was born, I named her after Derrick Rose—not literally, but her middle name is LaRose because my name starts with LA. She’s in the car now with her mom and my son." Hardie said, "I came to get some roses, see him, and shake his hand. We’re from the same area (the Southside), which makes it all worth it. It’s a blessing. The legacy of Derrick Rose is bittersweet. If you know his story, especially coming from the same side of town, it hits differently. He’s so Chicago—it’ll surely make you smile and cry."
Another fan added, "I came to see the pop-up, for the flowers, and to thank him for all his time here in Chicago."
What a homecoming it will be for the former NBA player who hails from Englewood on the South Side and is the youngest player to win the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award as a member of the Chicago Bulls.
On Saturday, January 4, the Bulls will pay tribute to Derrick Rose, one of the most iconic players in franchise history, with a meaningful "Derrick Rose Night." The team will face off against the New York Knicks, one of his former teams, at the United Center, with the gates opening at 5 p.m.
This special night will celebrate Rose’s legendary career and enduring impact on the Bulls and the city of Chicago. There will be unique moments where Rose, his family, and former teammates will be honored throughout the game.
It will also mark his retirement from the NBA, the conclusion of an unforgettable career. With his wildly successful pop-up flower shop and other ventures, it is the symbolic start of a new chapter in a remarkable life.
Conclusions
Derrick Rose’s Flower Shop was a huge success, with fans braving the cold to show their appreciation for the Chicago-born NBA star. The pop-up shop was a unique opportunity for fans to meet Rose and take home a special keepsake. The event also marked the start of a new chapter in Rose’s life, as he begins to focus on his post-NBA endeavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Derrick Rose’s Flower Shop?
A: Derrick Rose’s Flower Shop is a pop-up shop where fans can meet Rose and create their own flower arrangements to send to loved ones.
Q: What is the purpose of the event?
A: The event is a way for Rose to give back to his fans and celebrate his legacy in Chicago.
Q: When is the event taking place?
A: The event is taking place on a Thursday, with the exact date to be announced.
Q: How can I attend the event?
A: Fans can attend the event by lining up early and following the instructions provided by event staff.
