Derrick Rose and adidas officially unveiled his new sneaker, logo and signature apparel collection Thursday in the South Loop. The intimate event was held at the Chicago Illuminating Company with both local and national media in attendance.
While the intended purpose was for Rose to talk about his new line and show off the products, the Chicago Bulls star also opened up on a number of personal topics, giving people a glimpse into who he is and what moves him.
He told a funny story about his mom, Brenda, who still does all her own house chores even though she can now afford to pay someone to do them. He also, on several occasions, mentioned the impending birth of his son which has been an Internet topic for months.
But the most moving moment came when Derrick broke down and cried when a clip of “The Return” video series was flashed across the screen. He fought back tears after being asked about how the videos have seemed to inspire his fans and how they in turn inspire him as he works to get back to full strength.
“It’s truly a blessing, man," Rose said. "With all of this stuff that’s going on in this city, a kid from Englewood got something positive going on.
“That makes me feel so good, man. This shoe is great, all of this is great, but I can’t explain this. I can’t. I went through so much and to have true fans, it means a lot to me, and I know it means a lot to my family.”
He continued to speak on achieving success for himself and financial stability for his family despite coming from a neighborhood where the odds are stacked against those who live there and many don’t have any hope for a better life beyond their present circumstances or condition.
“We’re not supposed to be here at all,” said Rose of himself and his family. “But God made a way. This is truly unreal.”
It was that type of raw emotion that makes Rose a favorite with basketball fans everywhere. Said an adidas rep afterward, "That's who he is. Derrick doesn't do the fake stuff very well."
The adidas Rose 3 sneaker will hit stores Oct. 4 retailing for $160. The signature collection will release on the same date with prices ranging from $15 to $80.
