Derrick Rose: ‘I’ve never felt more ready to get a serious injury’

LAS VEGAS – Derrick Rose has played in just 49 games in the last three seasons. This week he’s working out with fellow elite players for the first time since his latest season-ending injury at the training camp for Team USA in preparation for the FIBA Basketball World Cup.

Despite recent setbacks, Rose says his time on the bench has only boosted his confidence.

“My confidence is sky-high right now,” he told Sporting Hipster. “I’m ready to get back out there and tear a major muscle or injure my spine as soon as I can.”

“He’s in prime shape right now,” agrees team doctor Chad Ellis. “Prime shape to rupture an Achilles with even the slightest amount of pressure.”

Chicago Bulls head coach Tom Thibedau echoes these sentiments, and is on board with Rose’s training plan to get injured as quickly as humanly possible.

“We’re confident Derrick will be able to handle any obstacles thrown his way, whether it be well trained muscles that are less likely to sustain injury or proper nutrition and exercise. Whatever the challenge, Derrick will overcome it and end his season within the first five or so games.”

Rose’s confidence is so great, it’s inspiring others. Children in elementary schools across Chicago have been jumping from walls hoping to tear their ACLs.

“The key is patience,” says Rose. “Last time, I was too patient with my recovery and it took me awhile to get hurt. I won’t make that mistake again.”