Coach K describes Rose as an “exceptional person” after coming back from injuries…
Team USA coach Mike Krzyzewski believes that Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose has made a real statement this summer ahead of his return to competitive action.
The 25-year-old has played just 10 games in the NBA over the past two seasons due to a torn ACL in his left knee and a torn meniscus in his right knee, with the latter keeping him sidelined since November last year.
However, he has returned to the spotlight over the past fortnight after impressing in the U.S. training camp, and the point guard is expected to be announced as part of the final 12-man roster for the FIBA World Cup later this month.
“It takes an exceptional person, which is why we’re talking about Derrick,” Krzyzewski said, ESPN reports.
“I think he’s exceptional in every way. He went right at it. The first defensive exchange in the camp, he was all over the ball handler, moving his feet, attacking him. There was a buzz right away because it was basically his saying, ‘Look, I’m not just back. I’m back at a level that’s elite.'”
Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau, who also serves as an assistant coach with the national team, echoed Krzyzewski’s sentiments but continued to err on the side of caution in that he believes Rose must continue to take it a step at a time.
Nevertheless, perhaps the biggest difference between Rose’s latest return and the one he made last season is his confidence, with the Bulls star consistently talking up what both he and the team can achieve this season.
Rose has a reputation for being one of the less colourful characters within the league, but he has been seen smiling, laughing and joking about various topics in interviews and is undoubtedly showing signs of getting back to his MVP level of performance on the court.
It remains to be seen whether or not he can avoid any setbacks next season, but Bulls fans are excited about the prospect of seeing their star player back in action leading a talented cast with new faces such as Pau Gasol and Nikola Mirotic ready to push the franchise towards another championship.
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