Derrick Rose, the former NBA MVP and Chicago native, was seen walking alone without security in his hometown in August 2023. The incident, captured by an excited fan and reported by VladTV, quickly went viral on social media, highlighting Rose’s unique relationship with the city.
Derrick Rose Seen Casually Hanging Out on the Block Without Security. He was spotted standing on a sidewalk in Chicago, casually talking on the phone. Given Rose’s high profile, the fan who recorded the moment was taken aback by the absence of security. The footage, shared on Instagram, garnered significant attention, reflecting the public’s fascination with seeing the basketball icon in such an everyday setting.
Derrick Rose, born and raised in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, has deep roots in the city. A 2020 NBA.com article, “The chosen one: Derrick Rose living the dream of Chicago’s fervent hoops community,” notes his profound impact on the local basketball scene, cementing his status as a beloved figure.
Despite growing up in a challenging area, Rose’s talent propelled him to stardom, including eight seasons with the Chicago Bulls and the 2011 NBA MVP award. The VladTV report also mentions that his brothers have historically shielded him from gang violence, which may contribute to his ease in navigating his hometown unprotected.
The fan’s disbelief at seeing Rose without security is understandable. High-profile athletes typically have security personnel to manage fan interactions and ensure safety, particularly in urban environments like Chicago, where certain areas face higher crime rates.
Yet, Rose’s strong ties to the community and his reputation as a local hero might explain his comfort without a protective entourage. His retirement from the NBA in September 2024, as documented on his Wikipedia page updated in January 2025, could further diminish his perceived need for constant security, especially in a city where he is widely adored.
Since retiring, Rose has remained active in Chicago. In January 2025, the Chicago Sun-Times reported on his pop-up flower shop in River North, where he handed out thousands of free flowers to fans. Unlike the spontaneous 2023 sighting, these organized events likely included security measures to handle large crowds.
