Former NBA MVP Derrick Rose retires after 16 years

​​​​​​​By Selcuk Bugra Gokalp

Former NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) Derrick Rose announced his retirement on Thursday from the game of basketball after 16 years.

The 35-year-old made the announcement on Instagram.

"Thank You, My First Love. You gave me a gift, our time together, one that I will cherish for the rest of my days. You told me it's okay to say goodbye, reassuring me that you'll always be a part of me, no matter where life takes me. Forever yours, Derrick Rose," wrote the now-retired Memphis Grizzlies player.

Rose, who was selected by the Chicago Bulls as first overall pick in the 2008 NBA draft out of the Memphis Tigers, was named the youngest MVP in the league in 2011 at the age of 22.

He also played for several other franchises including the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, Minnesota Timberwolves and the Detroit Pistons.​​​​​​​