CNN
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Derrick Rose, a longtime NBA veteran and former league MVP, announced his decision to retire from professional basketball on Thursday.

Rose, who was drafted first overall out of the University of Memphis in 2008, played 16 NBA seasons – the first seven of them with the Chicago Bulls.

Rose posted his announcement on social media and took out ads in newspapers in the six NBA cities where he played with a passionate tribute to basketball.

“Thank you, my first love…You believed in me through all the ups and downs, my constant when everything else seemed uncertain. You showed me what love really means. They made the farm my sanctuary, a home where I could express myself freely. “You made every early morning and late night we spent together worth every drop of sweat,” Rose posted.

“You reminded me that I could always count on you and that in every moment of doubt you would show me what I was capable of. They introduced me to new places and cultures that a kid from Chicago could never have imagined.

“You taught me that every defeat was a lesson and every victory was a reason for gratitude.

“They offered wisdom that was not just about the game, but also about life, discipline, hard work and perseverance. You showed me that passion is something to be treasured and made me put my heart into every dribble, every shot, every play. You stood by me unconditionally, even when the world seemed against me, and waited for me to pick you up.

“You gave me a gift, our time together, one that I will cherish for the rest of my days. You told me it was okay to say goodbye and assured me that no matter where life takes me, you will always be a part of me. Forever yours. “Derrick Rose”

Rose played for six franchises during his NBA career and will be best remembered for his time with the Bulls.

The guard won Rookie of the Year honors in his first season in the league and became the face of the franchise.

When healthy, Rose was dominant.

At age 22, Rose averaged 25.0 points and 7.7 assists per game during the 2010-11 season. At the end of that season, the guard won the prestigious Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, becoming the youngest ever winner of the award.

The following season, Rose suffered a torn ACL in the playoffs against the Philadelphia 76ers, marking the beginning of an injury-filled remainder of his career.

Rose went on to play for the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons and Memphis Grizzlies.

Rose, a three-time All-Star, finished his career with averages of 17.4 points, 5.2 assists and 3.2 rebounds.