The debate over the NBA’s greatest of all time (GOAT) is a perpetual source of passionate discussion among fans and analysts alike. While names like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar often dominate the conversation, a surprising new contender has emerged from the lips of a Chicago Bulls legend himself. Derrick Rose, the youngest MVP in NBA history and a once-electrifying force for the Bulls, has just revealed his personal GOAT, and it’s a pick that’s sending shockwaves through the basketball world. His choice is not only unexpected but deeply personal, offering a fascinating glimpse into the mindset of a player who carved his own unique path to greatness.
Derrick Rose, a name synonymous with explosive athleticism and a captivating “what if” story due to injuries, recently fielded questions at the 2025 adidas Eurocamp. Among the most anticipated queries was his take on the GOAT debate. For years, many assumed Rose, as a Bulls legend, would naturally lean towards Michael Jordan, given MJ’s unparalleled legacy in Chicago. However, Rose’s answer defied expectations and instead revealed a profound connection to his roots and a deep respect for a player often overlooked in mainstream GOAT discussions: Isiah Thomas.
Rose’s reasoning is as compelling as his pick: “Isiah Thomas because he’s from Chicago. The only guy that beat Magic, Mike and Bird all in their prime at 6-3. Chicago way of doing st… I used to say MJ… I said it because I was intrigued on history and how he won, but I’m not a two guard.” This statement unpacks multiple layers of his perspective. Firstly, the “Chicago way of doing st” highlights a fierce local pride and a reverence for the city’s basketball heritage. Thomas, like Rose, emerged from the tough streets of Chicago, forging a bond that transcends mere statistics.
Secondly, Rose’s emphasis on Thomas’s ability to “beat Magic, Mike and Bird all in their prime at 6-3” is a powerful testament to Thomas’s competitive fire and skill. Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, and Larry Bird represent three of the undisputed titans of their era, and for a smaller guard like Thomas to lead his team to championships against them speaks volumes about his tenacity and leadership. This particular detail showcases Rose’s appreciation for underdog triumphs and the unique challenges faced by smaller guards in a league often dominated by larger players.
Finally, Rose’s candid admission, “I used to say MJ… but I’m not a two guard,” reveals a personal identification with Thomas’s position and playing style. Rose himself was a dynamic point guard, known for his relentless attacking style, much like Thomas. While Jordan’s greatness was undeniable, Rose perhaps saw more of himself, and a more relatable pathway to success, in Thomas’s game. This personal connection makes his GOAT pick all the more authentic and intriguing.
Isiah Thomas’s career with the Detroit Pistons was indeed legendary. He spent all 13 seasons with the Pistons, leading them to two NBA Championships and earning 12 All-Star selections. His impressive career stats of 19.2 PPG, 9.3 APG, 1.9 SPG, along with 5 All-NBA selections and a Finals MVP, solidify his status as one of the greatest point guards and top 25 players of all time. Rose, himself a former MVP and three-time All-Star whose prime was tragically cut short by injuries, understands the pinnacle of individual dominance. His respect for Thomas, a player who achieved ultimate team success while navigating an era of giants, resonates deeply.
Derrick Rose’s revelation of Isiah Thomas as his GOAT is more than just a personal opinion; it’s a powerful statement rooted in Chicago pride, a respect for historical underdog triumphs, and a personal connection to Thomas’s playing style. While the GOAT debate will forever rage on, Rose’s surprising pick injects a fresh, deeply personal perspective into the conversation, challenging conventional wisdom and forcing fans to reconsider the legacies of players who often get overshadowed. It’s a reminder that greatness can be perceived in many forms, and for Derrick Rose, the “Chicago way” defines the pinnacle of basketball achievement. This hot take from a beloved Bulls legend is sure to fuel countless debates and solidify Rose’s unique voice in the basketball world.