Derrick Rose Declines Statue in Chicago After Dwyane Wade's Experience

Rose cites Wade's controversial statue as reason to avoid similar honor in his hometown.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 4:07pm

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Former NBA MVP Derrick Rose has declined the opportunity to have a statue erected in his honor in Chicago, citing the negative reaction to the statue of fellow star Dwyane Wade unveiled in Miami in 2024. Rose said he saw how Wade's statue was criticized for not resembling the 13-time All-Star, and he wants to avoid a similar situation.

Why it matters

Rose is one of the most beloved athletes to come out of Chicago, having won the NBA MVP award in 2011 while playing for the Bulls. A statue would have been a major honor, but Rose is wary of the potential backlash after seeing how Wade's statue was received.

The details

During an appearance on the Forbes business show 'The Enterprise Zone', host Jabari Young asked Rose whether he would be open to having a statue outside the arena in Chicago. Rose immediately declined the idea, referencing the Dwyane Wade statue the Miami Heat unveiled in 2024 that has been criticized for not resembling the 13-time All-Star.

  • In 2024, the Miami Heat unveiled a statue of Dwyane Wade.
  • On January 30, 2026, Derrick Rose appeared on 'The Enterprise Zone' and declined a statue in Chicago.

The players

Derrick Rose

A former NBA MVP who played for the Chicago Bulls and is one of the most beloved athletes to come out of the city.

Dwyane Wade

A 13-time NBA All-Star who had a statue unveiled in his honor by the Miami Heat in 2024.

Jabari Young

The host of the Forbes business show 'The Enterprise Zone' where Derrick Rose appeared.

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What they’re saying

“No knock, D-Wade. I saw that statue. I'm good.”

— Derrick Rose (Yahoo Sports)

The takeaway

Derrick Rose's decision to decline a statue in Chicago highlights the risks and potential backlash that can come with honoring athletes in this way, even for beloved hometown heroes. Rose's caution is understandable given the criticism Dwyane Wade's statue has faced, showing that statues are not always a straightforward way to commemorate an athlete's legacy.