Bulls' Derrick Rose admits traffic violation

H. Rick Bamman - hbamman@kcchronicle.com After his court appearance Monday, Chicago Bulls player Derrick Rose (right) signs autographs on the steps of the Kane County Judicial Center for Chris Burgess, left, and Dan Nolan of St. Charles. Rose was the number-one pick in this year's NBA draft.

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ST. CHARLES – The Chicago Bulls’ newest player will attend traffic school after admitting Monday to speeding more than 100 mph on I-88.

Derrick Rose, 19, appeared in Kane County traffic court Monday. He said he “wasn’t paying attention” the night of April 29 when a state trooper pulled Rose over in a Land Rover near Route 47.

Associate Judge Robert Morrow noted Rose’s clean driving record when agreeing to a six-month suspension, traffic school – which he’ll complete in DuPage County – and a $1,000 fine. Rose paid that fine following Monday’s hearing, according to his attorney, Terry Ekl.

“He made a mistake ... in which he learned a valuable lesson,” Ekl said.

Assistant State’s Attorney Steve Sims said he didn’t “formally object” to the supervision but noted Rose’s “very high speed.”

Rose originally was cited with a misdemeanor charge that carried the possibility of one year in jail and the loss of his driver’s license. That is still a possibility should he receive another violation during the time of his supervision.

“I did something stupid,” Rose said. “I’m looking toward the future. I’ve learned from my mistake.”

Besides media, Rose was met with a few autograph requests and flashing cameras of fans following his court hearing.

Thirteen-year-old Joel Lopez of St. Charles came with his dad, Neal, to have Rose sign a basketball.

“He’s awesome,” Joel said.

The Bulls chose Rose last month as their number-one pick in the NBA draft.