The Chicago Bulls would like Derrick Rose to make his return to the court as a member of Team USA at this summer's FIBA World Cup.
The next time you see Derrick Rose play, it could be at the FIBA Basketball World Cup. The Chicago Bulls are reportedly fine with their currently injured superstar guard suiting up for Team USA this summer in Spain, via Nick Friedell of ESPN Chicago:
"Our thinking is that it would be a terrific opportunity for him," Bulls general manager Gar Forman said Thursday in a text message. "And we would be supportive of him playing."
Rose tore his meniscus on Nov. 22 and was ruled out for the season shortly thereafter. USA Basketball included him on its 28-player list for training camp this summer, where stars will compete for the chance to make the World Cup roster.
Team USA head coach Mike Krzyzewski said that he wants Rose will be a part of training camp as long as the Bulls are OK with it, via ESPN:
"Well, I'm hoping 100 percent," Krzyzewski said. "We're all hoping that he'll be part of the group that comes in there. And then just because we haven't seen him play to see how he's doing. We'd never try to put him in harm's way for his career. But if he's ready, we'd welcome Derrick. Derrick's one of the great guys, in addition to being an outstanding player. He's a great team guy. And that's why we want him part of USA Basketball."
Krzyzewski added that Team USA would be in communication with Chicago regarding Rose's status. That shouldn't be too difficult, as Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau serves as one of Krzyzewski's assistants on the national team.
The last time Rose spoke with the media, on Feb. 12, he said that he'd be "all in" as long as his leg was feeling healthy. From the sounds of it, everyone involved in the decision is on the same page.