Chicago Bulls star guard Derrick Rose is taking part in contact drills as he works his way back from his second season-ending knee injury in as many seasons.

According to the Chicago Tribune, for the first time since undergoing his most recent procedure back in November for a torn meniscus in his right knee, the former league MVP took contact to the knee earlier this week during a spirited game of one-on-one with veteran reserve guard Mike James.

Derrick Rose still Bulls MVP?

The Bulls have previously reported the 25-year-old Rose has suffered no setbacks in his rehab and the team fully supports his goal of playing for Team USA this summer on the FIBA World Cup team. With Mike Kryzysewki as coach and Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau as a top assistant, the team is scheduled to convene in Las Vegas in late July.

Tom Thibodeau convinced of Derrick Rose comeback

Rose played in just 10 games for the Bulls this season, averaging 16 points, four assists and three rebounds after missing all of the 2012-13 season recovering from a torn ACL to his left knee.

News of his ongoing progress comes as a welcome jolt for the Bulls, knocked out of the playoffs on Tuesday by the Wizards 4-1 in the first round.

"Think Derrick Rose will be as good as ever? Tell us @SportsWN"