The Chicago Bulls are honoring Joakim Noah on Thursday night at the United Center when they play the New York Knicks. With Noah returning to Chicago, the Bulls have also made a big announcement involving the legendary center.

Noah will now be an official Bulls Ambassador. The team put out this press release with a quote from Noah:

“I'm truly humbled to be honored by both the team and city that I have always loved and respected,” said Noah. “Even more so to be able to celebrate tonight with family, friends, former players and coaches, and most of all – the Bulls fans who helped drive my energy throughout my years in a Bulls uniform at the United Center. It means so much to me that I'm now a Bull for life. I love you all and am thrilled tonight to solidify my continued connection with the Bulls and the city of Chicago, in this new chapter of my life.”

Noah spent the first nine seasons of his NBA career with the Bulls after getting drafted ninth overall in 2007. He soon became a fan favorite thanks to his relentless energy and tenacity on the defensive end of the court and on the glass. His fiery demeanor and quotability endeared himself to fans.

The big man also became one of the best big-man passers in the NBA during the prime of his career. He made two consecutive All-Star Games in 2013 and 2014, and he won Defensive Player of the Year in 2014. He finished fourth in MVP voting that season as well.

Noah is a great choice to be a Bulls Ambassador, and he already does a ton of work in the community through his Noah's Arc Foundation. It's going to be a special night in Chicago as Noah gets honored.