When Derrick Rose, the youngest MVP in NBA history, stepped onto the Southorn Stadium court in Wan Chai to the familiar strains of ‘Coming Home’, on May 1st, he did so not as a conquering hero but as a mentor and global ambassador for basketball

This was far more than just a celebrity appearance in usual ‘fan meet’ but a genuine connection that was forged between a basketball legend and a city eager to absorb his wisdom, his energy, and his passion for the sport. Derrick Rose entered the NBA in 2008, and just three years later, at the age of 22, he became the youngest MVP in NBA history. His exceptional talent led the league to introduce the "Derrick Rose Rule" in honor of promising rookie players. Throughout his career, he amassed a plethora of accolades including being the NBA's No.1 pick, Rookie of the Year, a three-time NBA All-Star, a member of the NBA All-Time First Team, a gold medalist in the Basketball World Championship, and a Men's Basketball World Cup champion. Last year, Rose announced his retirement, and the Chicago Bulls organized a retirement ceremony in his honour, retiring his iconic No.1 jersey.

GOAT Lab, the vanguard of basketball development in Asia, brought Derrick Rose back to Hong Kong after his last visit 12 years ago. This time, he wasn’t the young phenom still making his mark; he was a seasoned veteran, recently retired, accompanied by his wife and two young children, and ready to share some lessons learned from a career defined by both meteoric highs and humbling challenges.

Over 2,000 fans packed Southorn Stadium, a vibrant cross-section of the city’s basketball faithful, from NBA enthusiasts to aspiring young players. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation. Rose, relaxed and engaging, kicked off the evening with a lighthearted Q&A from experienced emcee and sportscaster Edcon Gabriel Yau. This was followed by Rose, showing the next generation about what the game is truly about - an unconventional shooting competition was organized, pitting fans against each other, with some receiving coaching from GOAT Lab’s professionals. The stakes? A chance to face Rose himself in the finals. The crowd was enthused, cheering wildly as the participants tested their mettle.

Then came the main event: a game where Rose teamed up with his young son, London, alongside local celebrities Louis Cheung and PakHo Chau, to face a squad led by GOAT Lab’s head coach Reggie Okosa and local artist Andy Kwong. The teams were further bolstered by GOAT Lab’s senior coaches including John Mcanthony and selected students, creating a melting pot of talent and experience. Rose, even in retirement, showcased his finesse in ball-handling to avid applause. The game was close, ending in a 46-46 tie.

This event underscored Rose’s impact beyond the NBA, showing he’s transitioned from a player to an inspiration. GOAT Lab's invitation was intentional: to motivate young local players through Rose’s journey, to show them that perseverance and dedication can overcome any obstacle. Rose, reflecting on his own career, urged everyone to “confront adversity courageously.”

In a previous group interview with the press, Rose delved deeper into his Hong Kong experience last week. He expressed a genuine appreciation for the city’s culture, the food, and the artistry. He was particularly impressed by the facilities at GOAT Lab, and the advantage young players have with indoor training, something he lacked growing up. Rose’s vision extends beyond individual talent. He spoke of his motto “DZY,” “Don’t Forget About the Zealous Youth,” a philosophy centered on nurturing the next generation. "It's really about the kids," he explained, "in pursuit of a great cause.” It’s also this mission that drove his collaboration with GOAT Lab, a recognition of the potential within Hong Kong’s basketball scene.

Regarding his next phase of life, Rose shared he is focused on “giving back love, showing love and appreciating life.” Having achieved everything he could on the court, and said he has no regrets, he now wants to empower the youth, and “hopefully someday, when these guys get older, they can hire me to work for their company”, he mused. 

Rose also touched on the growth of basketball in China and Hong Kong. He sees GOAT Lab as a pioneering facility, a harbinger of what’s to come. “These kids are talented enough,” he said, “they just need the equipment and they need the right training, and you never know, someone could make it from over here.” Specifically, he advocates, “Basketball is all about rhythm. It’s rhythm and relying on routine and discipline and vice versa, as once you have the discipline, you learn the routine. And that’s something you can take with you throughout your life.” These are the foundations upon which a successful career is built. He shared his own regrets, wishing he had focused on stretching earlier, highlighting the importance of taking care of one’s body. “I wish I heard that when I was younger,” he admitted. Looking ahead, Rose’s commitment is clear - to be a part of the growth and development of basketball in Hong Kong and Asia - and his ongoing collaboration with GOAT Lab. “I’m going all in on it and vice versa so it’s definitely a great partnership” he reinforces. 

Ultimately, the event was filled with connection, inspiration, and a reminder that the game of basketball is about more than just winning but it's also about community, mentorship and resilience. As Rose himself concluded, “Now, it’s all about the youth and giving back”.