DeMar DeRozan’s powerful campaign for ‘life and death issue’ makes him an icon like Michael Jordan

DeMar DeRozan hit two free throws in the final seconds to lead the Bulls to a 125-122 victory over the Warriors. He ended the night with an explosive 33 points, eight rebounds and four assists, extending his winning streak to three games. His impact extends beyond the hardwood, however, as he continues to break down barriers when it comes to mental health in the NBA.

It was All-Star Weekend in 2018, and DeMar, alone in his room and overcome with emotion, hit send on X post. “This depression gets the best of me…” The Bulls star wrote, referencing rapper Kevin Gates’ song “Tomorrow.” Over the past six years, he has become the league’s voice for mental health awareness, opening the door for players around the league facing similar situations to tell their stories. Last month, he took a step forward and launched a new interview series on YouTube called “Dinner with DeMar.”Instead of talking about what happens on the basketball court, this first-of-its-kind series focuses on “Real, unrehearsed, unfiltered conversations about mental health.”

The way Podium Pictures CEO and “Dinner with DeMar” executive producer Brett Rapkin sees it, these efforts put him in a similar position to the legendary Michael Jordan, but psychologically health advocates. “He chose to be an advocate for this life-and-death issue. Given how authentic he is, I can’t think of a better spokesperson to change the culture.” Rapkin told ESPN.

Michael Jordan was the only one to escape

While Deebo has come a long way, it hasn’t always been a bed of roses for the Bulls forward. Growing up in Compton, California, I saw a lot of death. Gunfire, gangs and funerals were a big part of the place where he was born. However, as soon as he closed his eyes, he was transported to a happier place, a place where he was Michael Jordan and his cubicle became the United Center, home of the Chicago Bulls. The only solace in a violent environment is to imagine yourself as Mike, running out of clutch shots and unleashing perfect fadeaway jumpers.

Fast forward to now, however, and DeMar DeRozan’s life has reached a full-blown moment. He’s doing all of that and more for the Bulls. The 34-year-old averaged 23.1 points, 4.2 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game while shooting 47.3% from the field and 34.9% from three-point range. The next step is to achieve his childhood dream of greatness and finally win a championship.