The Memphis Grizzlies have waived reserve point guard and former NBA MVP Derrick Rose, The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported Monday.
The news comes after Rose announced in April his plans to return to Memphis for his 17th NBA season in 2024-25. Rose joined the Grizzlies as a free agent in 2023. He was set to play next season in the second year of a two-year, $6.5 million contract.
Injuries limited Rose to 24 games last season. He made an impact when available on a roster plagued by extended absences of key players, including injured shooting guard Desmond Bane and All-Star point guard Ja Morant, who missed time due to suspension and injury.
In 16.6 minutes per game, Rose averaged eight points and 3.3 assists while shooting 46.1% from the floor and 36.6% from 3-point range. He made seven starts.
Rose, 35, said in April that he would return to the Grizzlies next season and had discussed his role with general manager Zach Kleiman and head coach Taylor Jenkins.
“Yeah, I’m coming back,” Rose said, according to the Memphis Commercial-Appeal. “I talked to Zach. I talked to coach. … This summer is all about tackling my rehab, my workouts and staying disciplined.”
It was not immediately clear what prompted the Grizzlies’ reported decision. Neither Rose nor the team had discussed the decision at the time of Monday’s report.
The No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 Draft by the Bulls, Rose was named Rookie of the Year, and went on to earn league MVP in his third season in Chicago. He is a three-time NBA All-Star.
Injuries, including a torn ACL, cost Rose the entire 2012-13 season and have limited him since. But he has carved out a role as a contributor for more than a decade since injuries derailed his career.
Rose has indicated that he wants to play again next season. If he does, it will apparently not be with the Grizzlies.
