In a striking display of camaraderie and sportsmanship, Sacramento Kings' owner Vivek Ranadive made headlines by sporting a shirt emblazoned with the phrase "They Not Like Us" during a recent game against the Toronto Raptors. This gesture appeared to pay tribute to Kings' star player, DeMar DeRozan, whose journey through the NBA has been nothing short of remarkable.
DeRozan's Storied Career
DeRozan, a former Toronto Raptors stalwart, was drafted by the Canadian team in 2009 and quickly established himself as a formidable force on the court. Over nearly a decade in Toronto, DeRozan earned six NBA All-Star titles, embodying the energy and skill that the Raptors have long been known for. His years with the Raptors were marked by both personal and team successes, cementing his place as one of the franchise's most recognized athletes.
In 2018, a significant chapter in DeRozan's career unfolded when he was traded to the San Antonio Spurs. This trade marked the end of an era for Raptors fans who had watched DeRozan's evolution from a promising rookie to a seasoned NBA star. Despite the geographical and emotional shift, DeRozan continued to prove his worth as a top-tier player while with the Spurs.
Kings' New Perspective
Fast forward to the present, and DeRozan is now wearing the Sacramento Kings jersey, bringing with him the expertise and leadership that many believe will be pivotal for the Kings' aspirations. His impact was palpable in their recent 122-107 victory over the Toronto Raptors, a team he once led on the court. This victory was particularly sweet for the Kings after suffering a narrow 131-128 defeat to the Raptors the previous weekend.
DeRozan's connection to the phrase "They Not Like Us," worn by Ranadive, stems from his appearance in Kendrick Lamar's music video titled "Not Like Us." This cultural crossover highlights how DeRozan's influence extends beyond the basketball court into broader realms of entertainment and pop culture.
Drake and the Raptor Legacy
The game also saw the presence of music icon Drake, who has been an ardent supporter of the Raptors over the years. His attendance was notably linked to discussions around the potential retirement of Vince Carter’s jersey—a move that Raptors fans have long anticipated. Drake's relationship with DeRozan, characterized by mutual admiration, is well documented. In a touching display of this bond, Drake once referred to DeRozan as a "brother" in a social media tribute.
Reflecting on his relationship with the Toronto-based rapper, DeRozan told The Sacramento Bee, "Drake's still my man; none of it changed. It's so easy to get overlooked and look at it for what it looks like, but at the end of the day, it's music, entertainment."
Looking Ahead
The intertwining of basketball and entertainment culture is evident in DeRozan’s career, and moments like these amplify the dynamic nature of modern sports. As DeRozan continues to don the Kings' jersey, fans eagerly anticipate the contributions he will bring to his current team. His journey is a testament to adaptability, resilience, and the often-unseen personal connections that make sports such a compelling world.
With significant moments peppered throughout his career, DeRozan’s current tenure with the Kings stands as an exciting chapter. Whether wearing symbolic shirts or sharing touching anecdotes, the NBA continues to be a vibrant confluence of athletic excellence and cultural narratives that captivate fans and observers alike.