Early Life and Education of DeMar DeRozan: A Complete Timeline

An overview of the childhood and early education of DeMar DeRozan, highlighting the experiences that shaped the journey.

DeMar Darnell DeRozan, nicknamed "Deebo", is an American professional basketball player currently playing for the Sacramento Kings in the NBA. Drafted ninth overall by the Toronto Raptors in 2009 after playing college basketball for USC, DeRozan has established himself as a prolific scorer and consistent performer. A six-time NBA All-Star and three-time All-NBA Team member, he's currently ranked sixth among all active NBA players on the all-time scoring list.

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Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

August 7, 1989: DeMar DeRozan's Birth

On August 7, 1989, DeMar Darnell DeRozan was born. He is now an American professional basketball player for the Sacramento Kings.

1995: Origin of "Deebo" Nickname

In 1995, DeRozan got the nickname "Deebo" after the character from the film Friday, after he beat up an eighth grader during a basketball game in sixth grade.

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November 2007: Signed Letter of Intent to Play Basketball at USC

In November 2007, DeRozan signed a letter of intent to play basketball at USC, choosing them over Arizona and North Carolina.

2008: Top College Recruit

In 2008, DeRozan was ranked as one of the top college recruits in the nation.

April 8, 2009: Announced Decision to Enter 2009 NBA Draft

On April 8, 2009, DeRozan announced his decision to enter the 2009 NBA draft and forgo his final three years of eligibility at USC.

June 25, 2009: Selected Ninth Overall by Toronto Raptors

On June 25, 2009, DeRozan was selected ninth overall by the Toronto Raptors in the 2009 NBA draft to help take better care of his mother.

July 9, 2009: Signed Rookie Contract with Raptors

On July 9, 2009, DeRozan signed his rookie scale contract with the Raptors.

2009: First Team Pac-10 All-Freshman Honors and Pac-10 Tournament MVP

In 2009, DeRozan earned First Team Pac-10 All-Freshman honors in addition to being named Pac-10 Tournament MVP after scoring a career-high 22 points against Arizona State in the Pac-10 Tournament final. The Trojans went to the 2009 NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament as a 10th seed, where they lost in the 2nd round to Michigan State.

2013: Birth of Daughter Diar

In 2013, DeRozan's daughter, Diar, was born.

July 14, 2016: Re-signed with Raptors

On July 14, 2016, DeRozan re-signed with the Raptors to a five-year, $139 million contract.

February 19, 2021: DeRozan's Father, Frank DeRozan, Passes Away

On February 19, 2021, DeRozan's father, Frank DeRozan, passed away after battling several longtime health issues.

2023: Diar DeRozan's Screams Impact Raptors' Play-In Game

In 2023, DeRozan's daughter, Diar, gained national attention for her consistent shrieking during free throws in the Bulls' play-in tournament game against the Toronto Raptors, potentially impacting their performance.

May 2024: DeRozan Mentioned in Kendrick Lamar's Diss Track

In May 2024, DeRozan was mentioned in "Not Like Us", a diss track by Kendrick Lamar, during Lamar's feud with Drake.

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July 4, 2024: DeRozan's Cameo in "Not Like Us" Music Video Release

On July 4, 2024, DeRozan had a cameo in the music video of "Not Like Us", which was symbolically released on July 4, 2024, and won the 67th Grammy Award for Best Music Video.

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July 8, 2024: DeRozan Signs with Sacramento Kings

On July 8, 2024, DeRozan signed with the Sacramento Kings on a three-year, $74 million contract in a sign-and-trade deal that also involved the San Antonio Spurs, with Chris Duarte, RaiQuan Gray and draft considerations going to Chicago and Harrison Barnes to San Antonio.

2024: DeRozan's Book "Above the Noise" Published

In 2024, DeRozan's book, "Above the Noise: My Story of Chasing Calm", was published by Harmony Books, detailing his experiences with depression and healing.