What makes a star? Is it the hours of training, the natural talent, or something more fundamental? For DeMar DeRozan, the answer lies not just in his elite basketball skills but in the adamant support of his parents.

As one of the NBA’s most consistent players, DeRozan’s ability to perform at the highest level, despite the pressures of stardom, speaks volumes about his upbringing. But how did he get to this point? Was it just pure talent, or were there deeper roots that shaped the man he is today?

A strong sense of family has always fueled DeRozan’s journey, from Compton’s tough streets to the bright lights of the NBA. But what role did his parents play in this? What lessons did they instill in him that helped him not only survive but thrive in an often unforgiving world?

When we look at his success, it’s clear that his parents, Frank and Diane DeRozan, are more than just supporters; rather, they are the foundation of his resilience, work ethic, and character.

But here’s the real question: What kind of influence can a parent have on a future NBA star? And how do those early lessons shape a player’s career when the stakes get higher and the spotlight burns brighter? For DeRozan, the impact of his parents is immeasurable, yet his on-court heroics often overshadow the story of their influence.

Who are DeMar DeRozan’s Parents?

DeMar DeRozan’s upbringing was far from easy. Growing up in Compton, California, he faced the harsh realities of inner-city life, where the pull of gang violence and crime loomed large. But his parents, Frank and Diane, refused to let their son become another statistic.

Frank DeRozan was no ordinary father. A former videographer for the city of Compton and the first African American to play varsity sports at Vidalia High School in Louisiana, Frank was a wanderer in his own right.

But beyond his accomplishments, he was a tireless provider, instilling in DeRozan the values of discipline, resilience, and the importance of family. “He taught me to never complain, no matter what you’re going through, and to always push forward,” DeRozan shared in an emotional tribute to his father.

The lessons Frank taught him weren’t just about basketball, they were about life. Frank’s influence shaped the player we see today, and DeRozan has always emphasised the importance of hard work and perseverance. Whether it was pushing through difficult moments or thriving under pressure, Frank’s lessons were always in the back of his mind.

Even after Frank’s passing on February 19, 2021, the impact of his father’s life continues to guide DeRozan in everything he does. To honor that legacy, DeRozan got a tattoo of his father’s face on his left shoulder. A constant reminder of the love, wisdom, and strength his father provided. “I carry my father with me every day,” DeRozan has said, reflecting the persisting bond between them.

Diane, his mother, who faced her own battles with lupus, imparted a different kind of strength, one rooted in resilience. Even as her health faltered, Diane was there for DeRozan, teaching him how to endure and how to show empathy.

“I remember I’d come home, and when I’d walk in the door if my head was down, she always used to tell me how to keep my head high,” the star said in an interview with the NY Times. He went on to say, “Never let nobody see you sweat. Never let nobody see you with worry on your face, no matter what it is — and I always carried that. She treated me like a teenager before I was a teenager, and it helped me mature so much.’

Her struggles became a quiet lesson in perseverance, and DeRozan often cites her as his greatest inspiration. With her health challenges, Diane was a living testament to overcoming adversity, and that mindset stuck with DeRozan throughout his life.

DeRozan’s Career Stats

Before becoming a household name in the NBA, DeRozan was a standout at Compton High School, where he played for the Compton Tarbabes. He quickly became one of the most highly sought-after high school basketball players in the country, earning McDonald’s All-American honors.

DeRozan’s explosive athleticism and scoring ability defined his high school career, traits that would later define his professional game. His performance at the high school level caught the attention of college recruiters and NBA scouts alike, setting him on a path toward greatness.

After high school, DeRozan decided to attend the University of Southern California (USC) for his college career, playing under head coach Tim Floyd. At USC, DeRozan continued to build on his impressive skills, averaging 13.9 points and 5.7 rebounds per game in his one season with the Trojans.

Although he only played one season in college, DeRozan’s impact was undeniable, and his decision to enter the 2009 NBA Draft was almost a foregone conclusion. His natural talent and basketball IQ were apparent, but it was his work ethic instilled by his parents that separated him from many of his peers.

The Toronto Raptors selected DeRozan ninth overall in the 2009 NBA Draft, where he would spend the first nine years of his career. Throughout his career, DeRozan became one of the most reliable and consistent players in the league.

Known for his mid-range shooting, DeRozan averaged over 20 points per game in every season from 2013 to 2018, cementing his status as an elite scorer. As of 2023, his career averages are 20.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game.

After a trade to the San Antonio Spurs in 2018, DeRozan continued to excel, bringing his unique skill set to a new system under head coach Gregg Popovich. In 2021, DeRozan made another move to the Chicago Bulls, where he once again proved his ability to perform at an elite level. Currently, the star is playing for the Sacramento Kings.

Advocacy and Personal Growth: Lessons from Home

DeRozan’s relationship with his parents has also been pivotal in his advocacy off the court. Growing up with a mother who battled lupus, DeRozan witnessed the difficulties of living with a chronic illness.

This sparked a deep sense of compassion and a desire to give back. While playing for the Toronto Raptors, DeRozan partnered with Lupus Canada to raise awareness about the disease. His efforts weren’t just about charity; they were a way to honor his mother’s struggle and to help others who were dealing with similar challenges.

But DeRozan didn’t stop there. He also became an advocate for mental health, opening up about his own struggles with depression. This transparency about his mental health battles reflects the values instilled in him by his parents. Values of empathy, self-awareness, and the importance of talking about troublesome issues.

By using his platform to discuss these matters, DeRozan not only helps others but also shows the world the actual power of a strong family foundation. They didn’t just teach him how to play basketball, they shaped the man he is today.

Fast forward to now, and DeRozan continues to carry their legacy with pride. Whether advocating for mental health, leading by example on the court, or giving back through charity work, he stays true to the lessons his parents taught him.

Frank and Diane’s influence doesn’t just show up in DeRozan’s game. It’s woven into every action, every decision, and every step of his journey.