So far as things that appeal directly to my own personal interests go, Will Leitch profiling Derrick Rose in GQ complete with an elaborate hipster-chic photo spread ranks fairly highly. Waking up to this was a gift, a gift every Bulls fan should bask in: the profile is wide-ranging and in-depth; Leitch even gets a little psychoanalytical with his subject.
The photo shoot? Well. Trey Kerby of The Basketball Jones described it as "vaguely hilarious", and I can't think of a more apt description. Derrick Rose modeling a variety of skinny ties and skinny jeans is just kind of great, even if the whole thing comes off as a little hypocritical.
"I hate attention," Rose tells Leitch. Then why are you doing a cover shoot for a national magazine, bro?
Oh well. Leitch essentially knocks the profile out of the park, focusing on Rose's sheltered upbringing in Chicago's often explosive Englewood neighborhood, Rose's introverted personality, and Chicago's unparalleled admiration for their homegrown superstar. It's great, and I recommend you read the whole thing.
Here's my favorite picture:
I dare you to look at that without cracking a smile. Best quote:
One difference between Rose and other athletes who have palled around with the prez is that Rose has known him since back when. "I remember when he wasn't our president, when I was a kid, when he'd just be walking down the street, a state senator. He was just always there. I didn't appreciate it then. I was in high school and just wanted to see rappers."
The video is pretty excellent, as well.
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