Tom Thibodeau Hoping Derrick Rose Plays for Team USA

Following knee surgery to repair a torn media meniscus, Derrick Rose has begun shooting around. And Chicago Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau is keeping his fingers crossed about the former NBA MVP re-joining Team USA. Per CSN Chicago:

“He’s shooting now. So he’s coming along fine. His spirit’s strong,” Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau said. “He had two workouts today, but he still has a long way to go. It’s important for him to go step by step, be patient and just regain his health.”

In addition to coaching Rose with the Bulls, Thibodeau could also coach the Chicago native as a member of USA Basketball’s coaching staff. Thibodeau didn’t rule out Rose’s potential participation in the 2014 World Cup, something USA Basketball will have a conference call about Thursday.

“Well, I’m hopeful that he will participate and he’ll be selected, but a lot depends on where his health is,” Thibodeau explained. “But I thought it was a great experience for him in the past. I know how much he enjoyed it. I know how USA Basketball feels about him. I think it’s a great honor and a privilege, and hopefully it’ll work out.”

Rose was a member of the USA Basketball team that won the gold medal at the FIBA World Championships, prior to his 2010-11 MVP campaign for the Bulls.