Latest news with #DeMarDeRozan
National Post
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- National Post
Former Raptors all-star DeMar DeRozan shares thoughts about playing in Toronto
DeMar DeRozan may have a beef with one of Toronto's most famous musicians, but he has nothing against the city itself. Article content During a recent appearance on the Run Your Race podcast, the California-raised NBA star – who has become involved in the rap feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, siding with the latter — shared his feelings about playing the majority of his career north of the border. Article content When asked by host Theo Pinson, a former NBA guard, about his time playing in Toronto, DeRozan was nothing but complimentary towards the Six. Article content 'Talk about hooping in Toronto, in general … How special is Toronto?' Pinson asked. Article content 'I'm glad I didn't get drafted nowhere else. Toronto is always going to be the No. 1 place in my heart,' DeRozan said. Article content 'For everything that they've done for me, did for me, supporting me through my time there.' Article content Article content DeMar's love for Toronto is unconditional #WeTheNorth — Raptors Republic (@raptorsrepublic) May 28, 2025 Article content DeRozan was selected ninth overall in the 2009 NBA draft by the Raptors. Article content 'I grew up there, I embraced everything that came with playing there and I just wanted to give everything back to that place when it came to playing basketball,' DeRozan continued. Article content 'That's why I worked so hard, that's why I repped so hard … that fanbase deserved that when it came to sports.' Article content The six-time NBA all-star also said that he wanted the city to be known for more than just the Leafs on the sporting landscape. Article content 'When I got there, I remember just only seeing the Maple Leafs on TV every single day,' he said. Article content 'I wanted it to be respected for basketball as well, I wanted people to think that Toronto, from that standpoint as well. Article content 'That's why it was so dope when we hosted (NBA all-star weekend) there in 2016, to bring more light to the city.' Article content Article content During the interview, DeRozan also praised his former teammate and fellow Raptors great Chris Bosh. Article content Article content DeRozan said that, during his rookie season, he was blown away by the 11-time all-star. Article content 'Listen, CB was cold,' DeRozan told Pinson, according to Basketball Network. 'Listen, bro. I remember our first training camp. I remember coming in training camp and excited for training camp. I'm like, 's***, Chris Bosh is about to be here.' He coming in training camp, but he didn't do training camp, because I think that's the summer before they did the Olympics. He was on the Olympic team, so he was resting. Article content 'But when the season started and how he got to it, he was getting buckets, he was getting 40. I'm like, 'Yo, this motherf***** nice!' DeRozan added. Article content
Toronto Sun
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Toronto Sun
Former Raptors all-star DeMar DeRozan shares thoughts about playing in Toronto
'I grew up there, I embraced everything that came with playing there and I just wanted to give everything back to that place when it came to playing basketball.' Former Toronto Raptors forward DeMar DeRozan reacts after making a basket during a game in 2014. The Canadian Press DeMar DeRozan may have a beef with one of Toronto's most famous musicians, but he has nothing against the city itself. During a recent appearance on the Run Your Race podcast, the California-raised NBA star – who has become involved in the rap feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar, siding with the latter — shared his feelings about playing the majority of his career north of the border. When asked by host Theo Pinson, a former NBA guard, about his time playing in Toronto, DeRozan was nothing but complimentary towards the Six. 'Talk about hooping in Toronto, in general … How special is Toronto?' Pinson asked. 'I'm glad I didn't get drafted nowhere else. Toronto is always going to be the No. 1 place in my heart,' DeRozan said. 'For everything that they've done for me, did for me, supporting me through my time there.' This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account DeRozan was selected ninth overall in the 2009 NBA draft by the Raptors. 'I grew up there, I embraced everything that came with playing there and I just wanted to give everything back to that place when it came to playing basketball,' DeRozan continued. 'That's why I worked so hard, that's why I repped so hard … that fanbase deserved that when it came to sports.' The six-time NBA all-star also said that he wanted the city to be known for more than just the Leafs on the sporting landscape. 'When I got there, I remember just only seeing the Maple Leafs on TV every single day,' he said. 'I wanted it to be respected for basketball as well, I wanted people to think that Toronto, from that standpoint as well. 'That's why it was so dope when we hosted (NBA all-star weekend) there in 2016, to bring more light to the city.' This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Read More During the interview, DeRozan also praised his former teammate and fellow Raptors great Chris Bosh. DeRozan said that, during his rookie season, he was blown away by the 11-time all-star. 'Listen, CB was cold,' DeRozan told Pinson, according to Basketball Network. 'Listen, bro. I remember our first training camp. I remember coming in training camp and excited for training camp. I'm like, 's***, Chris Bosh is about to be here.' He coming in training camp, but he didn't do training camp, because I think that's the summer before they did the Olympics. He was on the Olympic team, so he was resting. 'But when the season started and how he got to it, he was getting buckets, he was getting 40. I'm like, 'Yo, this motherf***** nice!' DeRozan added. DeRozan just wrapped up his 16th NBA season and first with the Sacramento Kings. The 35-year-old swingman also has played for the San Antonio Spurs and Chicago Bulls. Toronto & GTA Ontario Toronto & GTA Toronto & GTA Sunshine Girls
Forbes
4 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
If Kings Are To Trade Sabonis, Identifying Playmaker Is Crucial
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 16: (R-L) DeMar DeRozan #10, Domantas Sabonis #11, and Zach LaVine #8 ... More of the Sacramento Kings sit on the bench at the end of the game in their loss to the Dallas Mavericks in othe NBA play-in tournament game at Golden 1 Center on April 16, 2025 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by) For years, the Chicago Bulls miscast Zach LaVine as a number one option, despite a lack of on-ball creation which is ultimately necessary for such a role. Despite being overburdened with such a role, LaVine routinely put up huge offensive volume, on elite efficiency, signaling that he may be even better when playing off of someone else. As he arrived in Sacramento, as a component in the De'Aaron Fox trade, he was put next to Domantas Sabonis and former Bulls teammate DeMar DeRozan. While he performed well after the trade, questions about his role linger. Sabonis is openly considering all options this summer. When the organization traded away Fox, after having already shrunk the floor by acquiring DeRozan in the summer, the Lithuanian big man realized the roster was in a state of flux. If goes without saying that any Sabonis departure would likely result in a ripple effect that ultimately has LaVine traded to another team, or right back in the first option role he shouldn't be in. As such, for the Kings, the organization need to be keenly aware of this, should Sabonis request a trade. If they have aspirations of making a real dent in the Western Conference, an organizational pecking order will have to be established, and one that makes sense for them, as well as LaVine given he's now 30 and doesn't have all the time in the world anymore. LaVine being as costly as he is ($47.5 million next season) means he's worth much more as a player than as a trade asset for the Kings. Therefore, if Sabonis is to be moved, identifying a real playmaker has to be the main priority, for a multitude of reasons. As good as Malik Monk has been for the Kings, his on-ball creation advancements simply haven't made it so far as to justify him as the long-term solution at point guard. Of course, the Kings have to ponder if Sabonis can fetch an elite playmaker of some sort, as the big man comes with holes in his game as well, most of which centers around his lack of rim protection. Whatever offers they get on Sabonis, taking on role players, or players in need of being assisted at a high rate, should be of less priority, unless they wish to see LaVine handle the ball more than ever before. That won't do him, or them, any favors. Unless noted otherwise, all stats via PBPStats, Cleaning the Glass or Basketball-Reference. All salary information via Spotrac. All odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Kings Boost Backcourt Depth in 3-Team Mock Trade With Warriors, Wizards
The Sacramento Kings, with former All-Stars DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine, and Domantas Sabonis, should have the talent to make a playoff run, although a lack of backcourt talent and the loaded Western Conference has made things tough. Unless the Kings trade their veterans and embrace a full-on rebuild, it's hard to imagine them leapfrogging teams like the Golden State Warriors, Los Angeles Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, and even the San Antonio Spurs. Advertisement However, one recently proposed mock trade would land solid talent and fix the Kings' lack of depth. Golden State Warriors guard Gary Payton II (0) and forward Jonathan Kuminga (00) against Sacramento Kings forward DeMar DeRozan (10)© Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images With no true point guard and a general lack of defense, the Kings have been unable to advance past the play-in tournament, much less make the playoffs outright. With poorly executed trades like the one for DeRozan and the one that sent away De'Aaron Fox still in fans' mouths, the Kings could right the ship under the new regime in the front office. Bleacher Report's Andy Bailey proposed a trade that lands some proven talent and young pieces in Sacramento. Full Mock Trade Details Warriors Receive: Corey Kispert, Jonas Valančiūnas, 2031 first-round pick via WSH (top-five protected) Wizards Receive: Jonathan Kuminga (via sign-and-trade), Malik Monk Kings Receive: Marcus Smart, Buddy Hield, Saddiq Bey, Trayce Jackson-Davis, 2030 first-round pick from WSH via GSW (top-20 protected) The Kings land talented youngsters in Saddiq Bey and Trayce Jackson-Davis to build around, as well as a heavily protected pick. Jackson-Davis could backup Sabonis, Hield would shore up the wing rotation, and the Kings get a proven point guard who can defend and facilitate. Advertisement By 2030, the Washington Wizards should, finally, be good, and Sacramento won't have to wait long for that pick to convey. While Smart has never been a lethal scorer, Sabonis, DeRozan, and LaVine all have a proven track record. Plus, adding Smart allows Keegan Murray, Malik Monk, and Hield to play larger bench roles. While this trade doesn't make the Kings frontrunners, it improves the roster where they need it the most, without making any massive sacrifices. Check out the Inside the Kings homepage for more news, analysis, and must-read articles. Related: Sacramento Kings' Purgatory Looks Even Worse After NBA Draft Lottery Shakeup Related: Kings Predicted to Send 6-Time All-Star to Clippers for Former Champion in Offseason Trade
Forbes
18-05-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The Mental Game: NBA Players DeRozan, Love, and Jordan Prioritize Mental Health
Over the past several years, many NBA players have been utilizing their social media platforms and community initiatives to have conversations about mental health. In the past, this certainly was not addressed in professional sports settings, yet players like Kevin Love, DeMar DeRozan, and DeAndre Jordan are leading conversations around the importance of mental health and wellness. During May, which is Mental Health Awareness Month, these three veteran athletes reflect on how their relationship with their mental health and well-being has evolved throughout their careers. Back in 2018, DeMar DeRozan opened up about his experiences with depression. He began his journey as a mental health advocate with authenticity and honesty, which led to conversations around well-being with other NBA athletes. He started a show titled Dinners with DeMar where he talked about mental health with other NBA players like Damian Lillard and Chris Paul. Despite many of the high-pressure moments throughout the NBA season, DeRozan still finds peace in the game of basketball itself. He refers to it as a sanctuary that goes back to his childhood. 'Basketball gave me the freedom to go out and decompress,' he explains. 'There's a peace between those four lines—that's how I approach the game and how I find clarity.' Maintaining perspective is what helps him navigate the highs and lows of the season. 'There are going to be peaks and valleys, but the way you approach those moments keeps you consistent.' When asked about the resources he's utilized to maintain his mental health and well-being, he credits many of his trusted coaches and teammates who took the time to connect with him about life, beyond the game of basketball. What mental wellness routine does he maintain today? DeRozan is a fan of daily cold plunges and sauna, and using different means of physical recovery to enhance his mental recovery as well. Mental and physical health are truly intertwined in many ways. 'Sometimes you feel better mentally just by taking care of your body physically,' DeRozan explains. DeMar DeRozan and Brook Choulet, M.D. Kevin Love has been one of the most prominent voices in the NBA on mental health. Back in 2018, he shared his struggles with anxiety after he experienced a panic attack during an NBA game. Since he publicly shared his story, he has played a pivotal role in normalizing mental health challenges in professional sports. Not only did Love raise awareness, but he also proceeded to live a life with daily self-care as well as taking action in the community. 'Taking care of my mental health isn't something you do reactively,' says Love. 'It has to be part of your everyday routine.' Off the court, Love has embraced new life transitions, such as being a father. 'It brought clarity to what really matters…I want my children to know that strength includes vulnerability and that expressing emotion is healthy.' Many players struggle with the transition from the daily grind of the NBA season to the off-season where there can be an abundance of downtime. Love speaks to his approach to the offseason and identifies it as a time for intentional rest. In addition to spending time with his family, he uses this time to engage in his nonprofit, the Kevin Love Fund, where he strives to help the next generation of athletes learn tools to help them thrive in the long run. Love says it best: 'Sometimes, the best recovery isn't doing more, it's learning how to just be for a bit.' This month, the Kevin Love Fund launched a free, evidence-based mental health curriculum for middle school through college-aged athletes. There are many skills taught to the student-athletes through the program such as tools for performance anxiety, emotional expression, and identity development. Love is passionate about helping other athletes recognize that their worth is not simply defined by their sport. 'I spent years thinking my only value came from basketball,' Love reflects. On the court, his mindset has shifted since becoming a father. 'I still want to compete and win, but I don't carry losses the same way—I carry love home with me, and that's grounding,' reflects Love. INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - NOVEMBER 15: Kevin Love #42 of the Miami Heat against theIndiana Pacers at ... More Gainbridge Fieldhouse on November 15, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by) DeAndre Jordan, who plays for the NBA's Denver Nuggets, is deep in a playoff run right now. He truly understands the added pressure that the post-season brings with it. What's Jordan's secret to maintaining clarity? He prioritizes focus: not by doing more but by filtering out the noise. Especially during the playoffs, Jordan notes, 'Eliminating a lot of outside noise daily is vital…hyper-focus has to be there during playoff games.' Another key to his success revolves around removing social media. 'I tend to eliminate social media during this time [playoffs] along with watching sports news and coverage on the playoffs,' says Jordan. He remains very routine-oriented, with a specific structure to his game days. 'The most important part of my mental prep on game days is relaxation and visualization,' reflects Jordan. He meditates and relaxes with his family, focusing on the present moment, rather than what's to come during the game. Jordan truly trusts the process and believes in the preparation he's done leading up to these high-pressure situations. 'I have prepared myself mentally and physically as best as I can for this moment of the season,' says Jordan. DENVER, COLORADO - DECEMBER 13: DeAndre Jordan #6 and Russell Westbrook #4 of the Denver Nuggets ... More smile after a play in the second half against the LA Clippers at Ball Arena on December 13, 2024, 2024 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by) These insights from DeRozan, Love, and Jordan highlight progress in the NBA, as mental health is no longer a silent struggle in professional sports. Their leadership is setting the stage for more athletes to speak out and normalize these conversations, shifting the narrative toward valuing mental wellness as an essential part of overall athletic performance.
