Derrick Rose Blossoms in First Playoff Game
April 18, 2009 by Stephen Kersey
Filed under Basketball
Derrick Rose is the likely 2009 NBA Rookie of the Year. In the first playoff game of his career, he showed the world exactly what makes him a great prospect. The 20-year-old point guard scored 36 points, dished off 11 assists and grabbed four boards.
Derrick Rose, Chicago Bulls Playoff Debut (Image: Flickr)
Perhaps even more impressively, Rose was able to lead the Chicago Bulls to a overtime victory over the defending NBA champion Boston Celtics. Entering the overtime period tied at 97, the Bulls were able to win by a final score of 105-103.
Rose, who hit 12-of-19 field goals and all 12 of his free throw attempts, successfully outplayed Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo. Rondo led the Celtics with his 29 points, nine rebounds and seven assists.
Ben Gordon chipped in 20 points for the Bulls, while Paul Pierce poured in 23 points for Boston. Game 2 between these two teams will be on Monday at 7 PM EST.
