DeMar DeRozan

DeMar Darnell DeRozan, born on August 7, 1989, is a dominant figure in professional basketball. Boasting an impressive athletic skill set, DeRozan is currently leveraging his talent and experience for the Chicago Bulls in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Prior to this, he has had a substantial stint with the USC Trojans during his college years.

After being recruited in the first round of the NBA draft of 2009, DeRozan’s career trajectory emphasized his potential growth, having been selected ninth overall by the Toronto Raptors. His accolades include being a six-time NBA All-Star and a three-time All-NBA Team member. He spent a significant part of his professional career with the Raptors, spanning nine seasons, and participated in five playoff stints. In 2018 he was traded to the San Antonio Spurs, and then to the Chicago Bulls in 2021.

Adding to his eclectic career repertoire, DeRozan also played for the United States national team in the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Summer Olympics.

A quintessential case of starting small and dreaming big, DeRozan made his first strides in basketball at Compton High School. He was recognized as one of the top players in his graduating class, ranked No.3 in the nation by Rivals.com and No.6 by Scout.com.

Throughout his high school years, he substantially contributed to his varsity basketball team. His consistent involvement and substantial contribution led to an increase in his seasons’ average, peaking at an average of 29.2 points and 7.9 rebounds per game in his senior year.

DeRozan’s performance orchestrated Compton High School’s stellar performance during his senior year. The institution held an impressive record of 26-6, a second consecutive Moore League championship, and a spot in the CIF Division IAA Southern Section quarter-finals. DeRozan’s efforts were not unnoticed; he won the Moore League Most Valuable Player Award and was named to the California All-State team.

In 2007, he signed a letter of intent to play basketball for USC, choosing it over offers from Arizona State and North Carolina. Here, he showcased his prowess by scoring a team-high 21 points with seven rebounds in an exhibition game against Azusa Pacific, a formidable accomplishment.

His performance at USC was consistently outstanding. He played every game of the season for the Trojans, scoring double figures 28 times and posting four double-doubles. His 485 points rank third all-time for a USC freshman.

Foregoing his remaining three years of eligibility at USC, DeRozan chose to enter the NBA draft in 2009. He was selected ninth overall by the Toronto Raptors, a decision partially influenced by his aspiration to better care for his mother suffering from lupus.

DeRozan made a significant contribution to the Raptors, setting numerous personal records and contributing to team victories. In particular, his 2013–14 season was a breakout year, averaging career-highs and leading the Raptors to a record-setting season. The Raptors reached several milestones, including a first-round playoff with the Washington Wizards and their first conference finals appearance.

After a successful run with the Raptors, DeRozan re-signed with the team in 2016 for a five-year, $139 million contract. In 2018, he moved on to play for the San Antonio Spurs and later joined the Chicago Bulls in 2021.

An inspiration both on and off the court, DeMar DeRozan continues his athletic journey, carving out his legacy as one of the NBA’s most versatile, resilient, and respected players.