Derrick Rose Return Update: Fans Build ‘Pray 4 Rose’ Memorial, Chicago Bulls Star Plans to Return [Pic]
Derrick Rose suffered another injury in his right knee this season. Chicago Bulls fans have been growing impatient with their superstar, and two artists took their frustration to another level.
Chicago artists David Beltran and Brendan Carroll made a mural and put up a collection of items to create what they called "Pray 4 Rose" memorial.
The makeshift shrine went viral online with several fans crying foul because such memorial is an insult to Rose, who is still alive and has just been sidelined after suffering a torn meniscus in his right knee for the second time in less than two years -- the third major knee injury in his career.
When asked about fans who are criticizing them for the "Pray 4 Rose" shrine, Beltran said in an interview with ESPN 1000 that he does not think the mural is offensive.
"For us it was a lighthearted tribute," Beltran said. "When you go on the Internet, people are just sitting behind their computers saying whatever they want. We really didn't think about it as far as offending anyone. As far as legalities go, its freedom of speech. It's a big deal. It's the third injury, it's a big deal for our city."
Beltran admitted his frustration over Rose's latest injury. He said that he thought they have the best shot to win the title this year, but everything changed when the former Most Valuable Player went down with another injury.
When asked about the mural created for him, Rose said that he was not offended, adding that he is getting used to criticisms about his situation since sustaining a torn ACL in his left knee in 2012.
"How can I be mad, or upset or devastated about anything?" Rose said via ESPN Sportsnation. "I know I've got people out there that really love me and really care about me as a person."
As for a possible return this season, Rose said that there is a "good chance" that he will be playing again this season, but he will continue taking a day-to-day approach. When he returns to action, the former Memphis standout vowed to continue playing with the same intensity he had before the recent setback.
"Whenever I come back, I think I'm going to be ready to play the way I normally play," Rose told reporters. "That's the smartest thing about being patient with everything that I'm doing, paying attention to my body, paying attention to details every day."
Rose averaged 18.4 points to go along with 5.0 assists and 3.1 rebounds in 46 games prior to the injury.
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