After School Matters and the Chicago Bulls partnered on two unforgettable events to celebrate Chicago legend Derrick Rose’s jersey retirement and spotlight the talent, creativity, and passion of ASM teens.
Through a mural unveiling, youth basketball clinic, art showcase, and an electrifying vocal performance at the Bulls game, young people shared their talents with thousands of fans—and showed what’s possible when teens are given opportunities to learn, create, and shine.
Teen Artists Help Create Derrick Rose–Inspired Mural
ASM and the Chicago Bulls collaborated to create a Derrick Rose–inspired mural titled “Home Court of Dreams” at the new ASM at Orleans Teen Center in the Cabrini community. The celebration included a mural dedication, teen art showcase, and youth basketball clinic. The Bulls also sponsored renovations to the gym, helping bring the space to life for Chicago teens.
“I never thought I’d have a mural, but at the same time the story correlates because I’m a collector, I love art. Basketball was holding me back in a way. Creative-wise, I was put into a box. People only look at you as an athlete. What you see right now, I waited to gain knowledge to be able to express myself this way. Thank you to Dwight, After School Matters, the Bulls—this collab means a lot to me and my family.” – Derrick Rose
Artist Dwight White II created the mural in collaboration with ASM Advanced Visual Arts teens and instructor Erick “Roho” Garcia. It reflects Rose’s career and impact through symbolic details, including a banner honoring his MVP achievement and a rose shop representing the city giving him his flowers. The mural is intended to inspire teens to pursue their own bold dreams.
ASM teen Elijah is from the South Side of Chicago, and when thinking about the impact of the mural, he said,“I want the city to feel like it’s a sign of hope, peace, and home. A place where people can have fun and admire their art.”
After the unveiling, Rose toured the teen art gallery, speaking with young artists about their work and celebrating their creativity—an experience these young artists will never forget. The Bulls also hosted a basketball clinic with their coaches in our brand-new gym for Orleans Basketball teens.
Teens Showcase Talent at Derrick Rose’s Jersey Retirement
Advanced Visual Arts and Lutz Center Welding teens also showcased Derrick Rose–inspired artwork at the United Center Atrium, including paintings and metal roses arranged into a giant number one to commemorate his jersey number. Fans stopped by to take photos and celebrate the teen-created pieces throughout the day and into the evening.
Teens from the ASM Vocal Arts Ensemble then made their debut, performing “Shining Star” with Keke Palmer, an award-winning entertainer, and J. Ivy, spoken word artist. The young artists sang and danced in front of thousands of fans, bringing energy, confidence, and professionalism to the Bulls game stage.
The night concluded with Derrick Rose’s jersey retirement ceremony—an emotional celebration with former teammates, coaches, and family reflecting on his historic career. For many teens, seeing Rose’s No. 1 raised to the rafters was a powerful reminder that where you come from doesn’t determine how far you can go.
Teen Kaiyeed summed it up best: “It was the best day of my life!”
A Longstanding Partnership Supporting Chicago Teens
The Chicago Bulls and ASM have partnered since the organization’s beginnings in 1991. As a player, Rose supported ASM teens not only with a surprise holiday shopping spree, he also made an incredibly generous $1 million donation toward ASM programs.
In recent years, Bulls players and staff have continued to invest in and engage with teens—through events like the Bulls Season of Giving cooking class led by Bulls forward Julian Phillips and team chef Christine Blank, and Bulls guard Coby White’s beat battle competition for ASM music students.
Together, ASM and the Chicago Bulls are investing in the next generation of Chicago talent—on the court, on the stage, and in the community.
Celebrating 35 Years of Empowering Chicago Teens
For 35 years, ASM has created opportunities for Chicago teens to learn, grow, and thrive through paid programs in the arts, communications and leadership, sports, and STEM. Moments like this—where teens collaborate with Chicago legends, perform on national stages, and showcase their creativity—reflect the power of investing in young people and their futures.
As ASM celebrates its 35th anniversary in 2026, we’re excited to continue expanding programs, partnerships, and spaces that help teens discover their passions, build skills, and shape Chicago’s future.