Considering his list of accolades and pure domination, Anthony Davis has cemented himself as one of the greatest basketball prospects to emerge from Chicago, trailing only behind Dwyane Wade and Isiah Thomas. However, there was a time when “The Brow” contemplated quitting basketball altogether, believing he simply wasn’t good enough. It was during that difficult period that the 10-time All-Star found inspiration in Derrick Rose, unknowingly using the former MVP’s journey as motivation to keep him striving for greatness.

Rose had no idea he was Davis’ hero

From an early age, D-Rose was no ordinary talent. His dominance in high school was undeniable, racking up accolades like Illinois’ Mr. Basketball in 2007, Class AA Tournament MVP, and McDonald’s All-American nod. More impressively, despite never being the tallest player on the court, the 6’3” point guard’s athleticism and skill set made him an undeniable force and an instant role model for young Chicago hoopers.

Moreover, his success continued at the collegiate level, where he led the University of Memphis to an impressive 33-1 record while averaging 14.9 points per game and securing a top seed in the NCAA Tournament. His transition into the NBA was seamless, winning Rookie of the Year, earning his first All-Star nod in his sophomore year, and becoming the league’s youngest MVP in league history in just his third year (after averaging 25 points per game).

In an interview with Shams Charania, the 2020 NBA Champion admitted that watching D-Rose excel at every stage of his career pushed him to give his best effort and dedicate himself to improving his craft – which played a huge role in AD being drafted No. 1 in the 2012 draft.

“I always watched Derrick Rose as I grew up. He inspired me a lot. I don’t think he knows that ‘cause we really ain’t close. The way guy from Chicago sacrificed a lot for the game of basketball,” Davis said. “The thing was I wasn’t Derrick Rose. I wasn’t recognized. My path was a little different. I thought about quitting basketball (or that) I wasn’t good enough. All these doubts and I was constantly able to watch D-Rose. I was able to watch him and how he played inspired me.”

Derrick Rose was a cultural icon

While fans continuously contemplate what Rose’s ceiling and legacy could have been had he not struggled with injuries, such admission from Davis, showed what he meant for the true basketball city in his home city. The three-time All-Star inspired countless young athletes to trust the process and relentlessly chase their dreams.

AD was among the thousands more who watched Rose while developing their skillset. The latter remains one of those who, even in their short career prime, became a cultural phenom.