DeMar DeRozan is a top-tier NBA veteran now that he’s 15 years into his career. He is not slowing down and continues to showcase the impressive longevity he has worked hard for over the years.
Through the years, DeMar DeRozan has proved he is one of the most impressive players on the floor. He went from being an athletic slasher to becoming the league’s deadliest mid-range scorer.
NBA fans have seen him grow with the Toronto Raptors and become a multi-time All-Star. He has continued to prolong his career and has cemented himself as a mid-range master. He might credit Gregg Popovich for extending his career, but DeRozan worked hard.
Throughout his career, DeRozan has taken care of his body, resulting in significant benefits. His longevity is impressive, and it is not coincidental.
Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty ImagesDeRozan has never had a drink in his life
On Dwyane Wade’s Time Out show, DeRozan talked about how he takes care of his body. A significant part of what he said was his refusal to drink alcohol. He has admitted his time is running out, so he wants to stay healthy.
It is an admirable decision because drinking is normal for a lot of adults. However, DeRozan knows the adverse effects of alcohol, so he did his due diligence to avoid it.
Considering the environment he is in within the NBA world, it is impressive that he refuses to drink alcohol. Being a professional athlete, like Michael Jordan, usually involves plenty of partying; however, DeRozan has set boundaries.
“I don’t drink, never had a drink in my life. Not saying there’s anything wrong with it. I just always looked at it from the standpoint in hooping, is my whole goal is I want to be able to play as long as I can,” DeRozan said on Time Out.
“I’m putting ice on it. Nothing hurting, but I’m doing it. Iced up? Just because, and it has become such a routine that it’s become a necessity to me.”
“It just led me down the tunnel of what I can do to prolong whatever I do. Eating healthy, taking care of myself, and sleeping. I just try to find every avenue to prolong whatever it is.”
Longevity should lead to more years in the NBA
Earlier in his career, DeRozan was an elite athlete. He regularly threw down massive dunks and made acrobatic layups. DeRozan can still do that from time to time, but his NBA veteran game has matured.
Elite mid-range shooting has been a big part of his game. That is where a significant chunk of his 25,000+ points has come from. It is a fantastic milestone to have, joining the likes of Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.
He can add more points to his tally, as he has continued to prove he’s an elite scorer. DeRozan still has a lot of years left in him, even at 35. His game is good enough to stay in the league, and he is working hard to remain healthy.
Retirement will come one day, which will probably be in Toronto. However, that will take some time because DeRozan is still in the league.