Tom Thibodeau Says Refs Penalizing Derrick Rose for Being ‘a Nice Guy’

Despite being one of the NBA’s most aggressive players, always looking to attack the basket, Derrick Rose has only attempted ten free-throws through three games so far this season. Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau thinks Rose’s reputation as a nice fella is working against him. Per the Chicago Sun-Times: “Next question,’ coach Tom Thibodeau said before weighing in. ‘I’ll say this: I don’t know of anyone who drives as hard as he does. Nor as fast as he does. And I think sometimes he’s penalized for being a nice guy. I’ll leave it at that.’ No question, Rose has had a difficulty re-entry so far. His shooting (28.8 percent) is down. His turnovers (5.67 a game) are up. His defense has been a struggle. But not getting to the foul line? ‘I can’t complain about it,’ Rose said. ‘All I can do is continue to drive. I guess I’m not getting fouled.'”