Rose Unveils Plan to Rescue Millions of Children Post-Mental Crisis

A New Vision for Chess: Derrick Rose’s Chesstival

Derrick Rose, a three-time NBA All-Star, has always had a unique way of looking at the world. While many athletes use chess as a way to relax and pass time, Rose sees it as something much more significant. He believes that this classic board game can be a powerful tool for change, especially in communities that have long struggled with violence and hardship. His vision is now taking shape through Chesstival, an event that blends the excitement of basketball with the intellectual challenge of chess.

On July 13, Rose partnered with world champion Magnus Carlsen to host Chesstival at the Wynn Las Vegas. This event brought together former NBA players, grandmasters, and fans from all walks of life. It was more than just a celebration of chess—it was a platform for meaningful conversations about the role of strategy, resilience, and mental health in everyday life.

A Message from the South Side

Rose grew up in Englewood, a neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side known for its high crime rates and challenging environment. Despite the struggles he faced, he never let his surroundings define him. Instead, he chose to focus on creating positive change, particularly for the younger generation. Chess, he believes, is one way to do that.

At Chesstival, Rose spoke passionately about how the game can help kids think before they act, preventing them from making decisions that could lead to harm or danger. “Where I’m from, it’s important to get kids to think about it before they pull the trigger,” he said. “The game can prevent that if you’re playing at an early age.”

While he acknowledges that chess isn’t a cure-all, Rose sees it as a starting point. “I’m not saying it’s the solution, but you gotta start somewhere,” he added.

A Personal Journey

Beyond the social mission, there’s another reason why chess holds such significance for Rose. It’s a form of therapy for him. As a child, he experienced trauma that left lasting effects, including symptoms of PTSD. Over the years, he has been open about his struggles with mental health, especially after suffering career-altering injuries.

In the high-pressure world of professional basketball, the mental toll can be just as heavy as the physical one. For Rose, the constant stress and expectations often led to anxiety. “I had anxiety whenever I played basketball,” he admitted. But when he plays chess, that anxiety disappears.

“Losing is actually worse in chess than basketball,” he explained. “After you lose in chess, it makes you want to fight. In basketball, I never got that mad.” This difference in reaction highlights how chess teaches resilience and a different kind of mindset—one that encourages growth rather than discouragement.

The Power of Strategy

For Rose, chess is more than just a game. It’s a way to rebuild, to reflect, and to find clarity. He believes that the skills developed through chess—such as critical thinking, patience, and perseverance—can help individuals overcome challenges both on and off the court.

His goal with Chesstival is not fame or recognition. It’s impact. He wants to reach out to young people who may be drifting toward negative paths and offer them an alternative. By combining his love for chess with his passion for community development, Rose is creating a movement that has the potential to change lives.

A Broader Mission

Chesstival represents more than just a personal journey for Rose. It’s a platform for education, empowerment, and connection. Through events like this, he hopes to inspire others to see the value in strategic thinking and mental resilience. Whether it’s through chess or other forms of engagement, Rose is determined to make a difference.

As he continues to share his story and his vision, one thing is clear: Derrick Rose is using his platform to create something meaningful. And in doing so, he’s proving that even the smallest steps can lead to big changes.