Derrick Rose has gotten to spend time with Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas, a Detroit Pistons Hall of Famer and fellow Chicago native, since he signed with the team earlier this summer. Rose spoke of him fondly, quickly noting Thomas was the only player to beat Michael Jordan in his prime.

“And it was a point guard,” Derrick Rose told K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago. “Being in that spot, understanding the spot he was in, the load he took on every night, I think being here I appreciate him even more. Even having conversations with him and understanding who he is as a person and as a player and the principles that he stood on. I realize it and understand it’s just Chicago. You know what I mean? The way that he was brought up, his mentality, just everything. It just glows off his aura. He’s a winner. And after talking to him, I see why.”

Isiah Thomas not only has extensive playoff experience, but has also tried his hand at coaching and as a front office executive, now being able to see basketball life from all sides.

Rose has been through his share of injuries in an up-and-down career, enjoying one of his best seasons in recent memory as a member of the Minnesota Timberwolves after being reunited with longtime coach Tom Thibodeau.

Thomas isn't one to give pep talks, but rather fling bits of advice. Those have been helpful for Rose, who is trying to make the most of his stint with the Pistons and keep his career alive.