Derrick Rose is no longer a star in the NBA, but he’s still making a big impact on the Memphis Grizzlies. Just ask Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr., the two best players in Memphis.
During an interview with Damichael Cole of The Memphis Commercial Appeal, Morant and Jackson Jr. praised Rose.
“He’s very knowledgeable,” Jackson Jr. said about Rose. “He’s vibing all the time. Great human being. Somebody that has probably rubbed off on everybody that he’s played with. I’m just glad he’s with us.”
“(He’s) making sure I’m still going about everything the right way, checking on me,” Morant said about Rose. “He’s definitely been a huge help for me, and I appreciate him.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., Derrick Rose, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
Rose, the youngest MVP in NBA history, is averaging 9.1 points, 2.0 rebounds and 3.5 assists for the Grizzlies this season while shooting 43.8% from the field, 34.4% from beyond the arc and 90.5% from the free-throw line. He hasn’t played since December 15 due to a hamstring injury.
Rose is beloved in Memphis. He played one year of college basketball at The University of Memphis and led the team to the National Championship Game. Rose told Cole that he bought a house in Memphis, something he didn’t do in New York, Cleveland, Minnesota or Detroit.
“When I did leave (after college), I always wished that I stayed a little bit longer,” Rose said. “That’s crazy, like all the times we’ve had chances to purchase spots and our first purchase was in Memphis.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., Derrick Rose, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
With Morant back in the fold, the Grizzlies are winning games again. Memphis is 4-0 with Morant in the lineup and 10-19 overall on the season. Morant, who plays like a young Rose, is averaging 28.8 points, 5.3 rebounds and 8.5 assists since returning from his suspension.
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