Derrick Rose, once the youngest MVP in NBA history, ends his career at the age of 35.

The three-time All-Star announced on social media Thursday morning that he is retiring from the NBA after 16 seasons.

The 6’3″ guard is best known for his time with the Chicago Bulls. Rose is from Chicago and was selected number 1 in the 2008 NBA Draft by the Bulls and quickly established himself as one of the league’s top stars.

After winning the Rookie of the Year award, Rose was named MVP in his third season at age 22. However, injuries ultimately altered Rose’s career and prevented him from maintaining his status as a top-tier star.

Rose played last season for the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Detroit Pistons, Minnesota Timberwolves and finally the Memphis Grizzlies.

In addition to his announcement, Rose took out full-page ads in local newspapers in every city he played in to thank fans.

According to ESPN, Rose was released from the final year of his contract with the Grizzlies earlier this week.

“Knowing that I gave everything to the game, I’m confident in my decision,” Rose told ESPN. “Basketball was just the beginning for me. Now it’s important that I give everything for my family – they deserve it.”

Here is Rose’s full statement from his announcement on Instagram:

“Thank you, my first love…

“You believed in me through good times and bad and were my constant when everything else seemed uncertain.

“You showed me what love really means. You 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.

“You reminded me that I could always rely on you, that in every moment of doubt you would show me what I was capable of.

“They showed me new places and cultures that a kid from Chicago could never have imagined.

“You taught me that every defeat is a lesson and every victory is a reason to be thankful.

“They imparted wisdom that not only relates to the game but also to life, to discipline, hard work and perseverance.

“You showed me that passion is something to be valued and made me put my heart and soul into every dribble, every shot and every game.

“You stood by me unconditionally, even when the world seemed to be against me, and waited for me to pick you up.

“You gave me the gift of time together, which I will cherish for the rest of my life.

“You told me it was okay to say goodbye and assured me that you would always be a part of me, no matter where life takes me.

“Yours forever,

“Derrick Rose”

Rose was known for his outstanding athleticism in his prime and was one of the most exciting players in the league when healthy. He averaged 19.7 points, 6.2 assists and 3.7 rebounds per game for Chicago.

An injury derailed his career in his twenties, but Rose made a comeback in his thirties, particularly during his time with the Knicks and Pistons.