DeMar DeRozan openly accepts vulnerability. Following his acquisition by the Sacramento Kings in a sign-and-trade agreement worth $73.7 million spanning three years, the 35-year-old NBA player published his autobiography, titled Above the Noise: My Journey of Pursuing Serenity. In his book, DeRozan urges individuals to accept and showcase their “Clark Kent side” instead of concealing it.
Breaking Barriers with a Tweet
DeRozan began discussing mental health after posting a tweet in February 2018 that said, “This depression get the best of me…” The tweet led to a discussion beyond basketball, encouraging other athletes to share their own challenges. Kevin Love also shared his mental health struggles, prompting the NBA to enhance its mental health initiative.
Personal Battles Behind the Scenes
DeRozan encountered significant obstacles while coming of age in Compton, California. His tweet was posted while he was facing family obligations, traveling across the country to see his ill father, and dealing with the stress of being a professional basketball player. Even though he scored an average of 24 points per game during that season, the burden of personal and professional expectations had a negative impact.
Impact on the Sports World
Courage of DeMar DeRozan motivated fellow athletes such as Simone Biles, Michael Phelps, and Naomi Osaka to engage in discussions about mental health. Phelps initiated the Permission Slip Campaign to promote increased transparency regarding mental health.
Vulnerability of DeMar DeRozan has opened up a platform for athletes to openly discuss their challenges without concealment. His words keep motivating, demonstrating that even the most powerful individuals require assistance.
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