Someone Else Always Has it Worse..

  Chicago Bulls franchise player and starting point guard Derrick Rose has been the center of much confusion lately. The Bulls have reported that doctors have cleared Rose to return to play, after suffering from a torn ACL last season, yet he has not made a return to the court. Some think he should sit out the remainder of the season if he does not feel ready and others feel that if he's physically capable he should get back out there and try to help his team remain in playoff contention. I'm sure this all has to be frustrating for him because he is undoubtedly a passionate competitor. When Rose should return will be a discussion for another post but his reason for being the news this morning is much more important than any complaints and speculation of his basketball status.
  On Monday, 6-month old Jonylah Watkins was shot 5 times and killed on the Southside of Chicago in the front seat of her father's car. Her father, who allegedly had known gang affiliations, told police the killer began firing as he was changing his daughter. After hearing of the story, Derrick Rose reportedly contacted the Watkins family and offered to pay for Jonylah's funeral. This just shows not only how compassionate Rose is as a person but also how the NBA Cares campaign is not just for show. This is a true act of kindness and sympathy by Rose, who himself recently became a father, as he also tweeted this just days before the shooting:

"What's the most important thing in life? To me, it's FAMILY...If you take away the fame & fortune they're the ones that will always be there"

  Hats off and much respect to Derrick for stepping out for his community in this way. The violence in Chicago is surely getting out of hand. The funeral will take place on Tuesday at 11:00 am.

Top Picture: Rose and Jonylah Watkins in the corner
Bottom Picture: Rose and his son

Sources: VIBE, Altanta Blackstar