A Rookie By Any Other Name...
By Matt Motyka in Miscellaneous on May 18, 2009 7:00PM
...would NOT smell as sweet. Rookie-of-the-Year Derrick Rose made an appearance at the adidas Sport Performance Store in Water Tower Place on Saturday to thank his fans and sign some schwag. Rose first addressed a large crowd in front of the entrance, expressing his gratitude for their support this season. After the thank-yous and a brief ceremony in which Rose dedicate a signed jersey to the store, Derrick made his way to a table in the back and hunkered down for two hours of signing autographs. In order to get the star's signature fans first had to obtain a wristband, which were distributed earlier in the day on a first-come, first-serve basis. The initial wristband was awarded shortly after the doors opened at 10 a.m., and by 12:30 p.m. all 200 had been distributed.
What types of items did the lucky attendees have autographed? Everything from posters and basketballs to faces and cell-phone screens (a decision one fan may regret when she tries to read her next text message). Rose even received a few gifts in return, as a handful of admirers presented him with personalized cards and artwork. Prompted by his strange choice of headwear, one bold fan asked Rose if he was a Boston Red Sox supporter. The native Chicagoan demurred, saying "Nah man, I just like hats. I just like hats." Once all of his John Hancocks had been dispensed, Rose returned to the store's entrance to announce the winner of a second autographed and framed jersey, which made one young lady very happy. In fact, it seemed like most everyone left with a smile, as even those without wristbands got to catch a glimpse their hero while stocking up on the latest D-Rose merchandise.