Derrick Rose grew up on the South Side of Chicago, so he has a keen appreciation of Michael Jordan’s Bulls. Those teams were far different from the more recent incarnations, and Rose, who was 9 when Jordan was in his final season in Chicago, has seen many players come and go since then. But when LeBron James and other high-profile free agents decided against playing for Chicago this summer, Rose was left as the face of the franchise. And now, as a member of the United States national team, he can show he is ready to stand out on a big stage when the Americans play two exhibitions this weekend in Madrid as they prepare for the FIBA world championships Aug. 28 to Sept. 12 in Turkey. Rose is competing for minutes, perhaps even a roster spot, on a team filled with point guards. If he emerges with a role on the team, it will be a positive step toward becoming the player he will need to be for the Bulls. Mike Krzyzewski, the United States coach, said Rose had elevated his game, particularly on defense, since the team started training. “There’s no maintenance,” he said of Rose’s play. “You’ve got a guy doing all those things who you never have to motivate.” Read more: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/21/sports/basketball/21guard.html?_r=1
I tuned in to watch the game last night. Seems like Rose didn't get in until 4:00 left in Q4 after the USA had a big lead.
He started against Spain and played 32 minutes. He started out great, then made some bad TO's. But they put the ball in Rose's hands for the last few possessions and he got a bucket and drew a foul. The US team definitely started out better with Rose vs the night before with Rondo.
I could care less how great of a leader he becomes, I want to see him become a great POINT GUARD first. a 28,4,6 PG with great leadership skills isn't what I want. I want that PG who can set up his teammates perfectfly.
