Derrick Rose is getting a second chance…or a fifth. The once dynamic and explosive point guard has gone from NBA MVP and franchise centerpiece to a backup many have lost faith in, but the Chicago native wants everyone to know that he can still ball.

Rose made $21 million last season averaging 18 PPG for the lowly New York Knicks, but he will make just $2 million after signing for the league minimum with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Eastern Conference champs, however, give Rose the chance to start anew and resume chasing what would be his first NBA title.

In an interview with The Associated Press, Rose discussed his low points, dealing with numerous injuries and a civil trial over a rape allegation of which he was eventually cleared. In all, it’s fueled him, and he’s been working extra hard to get ready for this upcoming season.

It’s unclear whether Rose will be playing behind Kyrie Irving or Isaiah Thomas; he just knows that he’ll be ready to prove himself. He knows people doubt whether he can still play. He doesn’t share those doubts. And though he won’t say so, he wouldn’t mind proving some wrong.

“When I get on a good team and I’m still hooping the same way, what are you going to say then?” Rose said. “The only thing that you’ll can say is that I can still play.”

VIA