Derrick Rose defends Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau

Chicago Bulls star Derrick Rose has defended coach Tom Thibodeau from criticism after speculation claimed that he had lost the locker room.

The Bulls had lost six of their last eight games prior to Thursday's win over the San Antonio Spurs, and Rose insisted that the players were to blame.

"This doesn't have anything to do with Thibs at all," Rose told reporters.

"The way that we've been playing doesn't have anything to do with Thibs. He's preparing us right. He's doing everything and did everything possible to prepare us as a coach. It's up to the players to give that effort."

Pau Gasol revealed that the players had a team meeting on Tuesday, with Thibodeau urging them to speak their mind in order to get a reaction.