When DeMar DeRozan was traded by the Toronto Raptors, it felt like his world was falling apart. He had built a life and career in Toronto but suddenly found himself relocating to San Antonio. However, this trade became pivotal not only for his career but especially for the deep bond he formed with Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich.
Facing Personal Loss and Support from Popovich
During the three seasons DeRozan spent with the Spurs, he faced several challenges, including living far from his family and coping with the passing of his father, Frank. In a critical moment, Popovich showed compassion by allowing DeRozan to travel to California to be with his father in his final hours.
After Frank’s death, while the team was preparing to face the Charlotte Hornets, DeRozan needed time away. Before leaving, Popovich visited his hotel room to offer support.
Pop sat in the room and cried with me for two hours,
DeRozan recalled on The 25/10 Show.
That just showed the person who he was.
Popovich’s Lessons Extend Far Beyond Basketball
Gregg Popovich, known for leading the Spurs to five championships, was transparent about his values. He often used practice as a moment to underscore how small basketball is compared to global issues.
There used to be days we’ll come in there and we think we have practice, and he’ll pull up some s*** going on in a third-world country with 13-year-old kids being trained to be killers,
DeRozan shared on 7 PM in Brooklyn.
Popovich’s approach showed that while basketball mattered, it was not everything. He emphasized the importance of life beyond the court, valuing relationships with family and friends above all.
He’ll put it in perspective like, ‘Man, we get to come here, shoot a basketball, make millions of dollars. Take care of your kids.’ He used to do a lot of things to put s*** in perspective,
DeRozan said.
Impact of Their Relationship on DeRozan’s Growth
Although DeRozan only reached the postseason once with the Spurs, his time there was profound. The relationship with Popovich helped him grow not just as an athlete but as a person, teaching him life lessons that endured beyond basketball. Popovich’s influence remains a significant part of DeRozan’s journey, shaping who he is off the court as much as on it.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What did Drake say to DeMar DeRozan?
A. During the 2017-18 season, DeRozan played for the Raptors and tried 3.6 three-pointers per game, a personal record. His success rate for these shots was 31.0 percent. Despite shooting more from beyond the arc, his overall scoring numbers went down.