35 Facts About DeMar DeRozan

Early Life and Background

DeMar DeRozan's journey to NBA stardom began long before he stepped onto a professional court. His early life and background played a significant role in shaping his career.

1. Born on August 7, 1989, in Compton, California, DeRozan grew up in a city known for its rich basketball culture.
2. His father, Frank DeRozan, was a former football player, while his mother, Diane, battled lupus, inspiring DeMar's resilience.
3. DeRozan attended Compton High School, where he became a standout player, averaging 26.1 points and 8.4 rebounds per game in his senior year.
4. He was a McDonald's All-American in 2008, showcasing his talent on a national stage.
5. DeRozan chose to play college basketball at the University of Southern California (USC), staying close to home.

College Career

DeRozan's time at USC was brief but impactful. His performance in college set the stage for his entry into the NBA.

6. During his freshman year at USC, DeRozan averaged 13.9 points and 5.7 rebounds per game.
7. He led the Trojans to the 2009 Pac-10 Tournament Championship, earning the MVP title.
8. DeRozan declared for the NBA Draft after just one season at USC, confident in his abilities to succeed at the next level.

NBA Draft and Early Career

DeRozan's entry into the NBA marked the beginning of a promising career. His early years in the league were filled with growth and development.

9. Selected 9th overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 2009 NBA Draft, DeRozan quickly made an impact.
10. In his rookie season, he averaged 8.6 points and 2.9 rebounds per game.
11. DeRozan participated in the 2010 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, finishing second to Nate Robinson.
12. By his third season, he was averaging over 16 points per game, establishing himself as a key player for the Raptors.

Rise to Stardom

DeRozan's hard work and dedication paid off as he rose to stardom in the NBA. His performance on the court earned him numerous accolades.

13. In the 2013-2014 season, DeRozan was selected for his first NBA All-Star Game.
14. He averaged a career-high 22.7 points per game that season, helping the Raptors reach the playoffs.
15. DeRozan became the first Raptors player to score 50 points in a game since Vince Carter, achieving this feat in January 2016.
16. He was named to the All-NBA Third Team in 2017, recognizing his outstanding performance.
17. DeRozan set a Raptors franchise record for most points in a single game with 52 points against the Milwaukee Bucks in January 2018.

Trade to San Antonio Spurs

In a surprising move, DeRozan was traded to the San Antonio Spurs, marking a new chapter in his career.

18. In July 2018, DeRozan was traded to the Spurs in exchange for Kawhi Leonard.
19. Despite the trade, DeRozan continued to perform at a high level, averaging 21.2 points per game in his first season with the Spurs.
20. He recorded his first career triple-double in January 2019, with 21 points, 14 rebounds, and 11 assists against the Raptors.
21. DeRozan's leadership and experience have been invaluable to the Spurs' young roster.

Personal Life and Advocacy

Off the court, DeRozan is known for his advocacy and personal life, which have endeared him to fans.

22. DeRozan is a father to two daughters, Diar and Mari, whom he often credits as his motivation.
23. He has been open about his struggles with mental health, raising awareness and reducing stigma around the issue.
24. DeRozan's honesty about his battles with depression has inspired many, earning him respect beyond basketball.
25. He has participated in various charitable activities, including hosting basketball camps for underprivileged youth.

Achievements and Records

DeRozan's career is marked by numerous achievements and records, highlighting his impact on the game.

26. DeRozan is a four-time NBA All-Star, selected in 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018.
27. He ranks among the top scorers in Toronto Raptors history, with over 13,000 points scored for the team.
28. DeRozan has been named to the All-NBA Team twice, in 2017 and 2018.
29. He holds the record for most free throws made in a single season for the Raptors, with 555 in the 2016-2017 season.
30. DeRozan is one of the few players to score over 20,000 points in his NBA career.

Current Status and Future Prospects

DeRozan's career continues to evolve, with fans eagerly watching his next moves. His future prospects remain bright.

31. As of the 2022-2023 season, DeRozan plays for the Chicago Bulls, bringing his veteran presence to the team.
32. He continues to average over 20 points per game, showcasing his consistent scoring ability.
33. DeRozan's experience and leadership are crucial for the Bulls' young roster, helping to guide the team through challenging games.
34. He remains a respected figure in the NBA, known for his professionalism and dedication to the sport.
35. DeRozan's legacy is still being written, with many believing he has several more years of high-level play ahead.

A Final Look at DeMar DeRozan's Journey

DeMar DeRozan's story is more than just numbers and accolades. It's a tale of resilience, hard work, and the power of staying true to oneself. From Compton to the NBA, DeRozan has faced challenges head-on, transforming them into stepping stones for success. His commitment to mental health advocacy off the court is as commendable as his performance on it, making him a role model for fans and fellow athletes alike. DeRozan's journey reminds us that behind every statistic is a human story of perseverance. As we've journeyed through the highs and lows of his career, it's clear that DeRozan's impact goes beyond basketball. He's not just a player; he's a beacon of hope and a testament to the strength of the human spirit.