Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls returns to the court Monday for Team USA after nursing a knee injury for eight months.

The 2011 National Basketball Association (NBA) MVP, Rose sat down most of the last season after he tore a meniscus in his right knee.

Rose, grasping a rolling massage stick, answered questions from reporters after the live scrimmage against other NBA players. He said that he has to subject himself to a meticulous process of stretching and soft-tissue work before stepping on the floor.

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Rose, 25, said that he was joking around with fellow USA basketball invitee Kyle Korver of the Atlanta Hawks when he said he was getting old but felt more mature. "I'm getting old, man. I've got to stretch, I've got to use rollers and stuff," said Rose to Korver.

"I'm a smarter player, a totally different player, but it comes with experience," added Rose.

Bulls' point guard Rose is one of 19 NBA players trying out for Team USA with 12 representing the country in the upcoming 17^th edition of the FIBA World Cup of Basketball in Spain.

After missing the 2012-2013 season because of a torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) on his left knee and only playing 10 games last season before injuring his right knee, his chances of being chosen were slim.

Rose said that he is trying to make the team with everything he's got and wouldn't feel mad about not making the cut.

"I'm just happy that I have the opportunity to come here and showcase my talent in front of everyone."

Team USA coach Mike Krzyzewski, also known as "Coach K," said that he was impressed with Rose's tenacity and defensive pressure.

"He was playing to exhaustion. That was a big plus for today, to see him. I was pleased that he didn't hold back. He played his butt off," said Coach K.

TagsACL, Kevin Korver, Team USA, Coach K