After initially asking to wear the No. 1 Chicago Bulls jersey formerly donned by Derrick Rose, Michael Carter-Williams changed his mind Monday in an effort to avoid any potential controversy.
Chuck Garfien of Comcast SportsNet Chicago was told by the newly acquired guard he would wear No. 7 instead.
The Bulls landed Carter-Williams in a trade that sent Tony Snell to the Milwaukee Bucks, per the Associated Press (via NBA.com).
While the Bulls were willing to give Carter-Williams No. 1 despite Rose's history with the number—including winning an NBA MVP award—the 25-year-old, fourth-year player reconsidered and praised the current New York Knicks point guard, per Chris Kuc of the Chicago Tribune: "I know this organization respects Derrick Rose.