Billy Donovan in awe of DeMar DeRozan’s calm in pressure-packed moments: ‘He gets very focused, he gets very quiet’
It can be easy for an NBA player to get overwhelmed in high-pressure situations. With the game hanging in the balance, fans scream their lungs out while coaches devise the perfect play to secure a win. However, pressure has little effect on DeMar DeRozan's game. Bulls coach Billy Donovan noticed this during his time coaching the 15-time All-Star in Chicago.
Laser-focused
For lack of a better term, an NBA game can be akin to a circus. With all the bright lights, loud noises, and intense pressure, staying focused can be difficult. This is where DeMar DeRozan stands out from the pack. According to Donovan, DeRozan can block out all distractions and remain laser-focused on the task.
“He gets very focused, he gets very quiet,” Donovan said of DeRozan’s demeanor during crunch time.
Not many players possess this level of focus, making DeRozan a valuable asset in pressure-packed moments for the Bulls—which has come plenty this season.
“I don’t think he gets distracted by what’s going on. He thrives in the chaos and those crunch moments. He’s able to calm himself and read the defense. He knows what spots and how to get to spots himself. And then I think just his concentration and ability to block things out,” Donovan continued.
Never gets overwhelmed by the moment
While some All-Stars cower at the sight of the ball heading their way in the clutch, DeRozan relishes these opportunities. Time and time again, he’s shown that he’s not intimidated by the pressure or magnitude of the moment. In fact, he embraces it.
“The moment never overwhelms him. He’s really done that throughout his entire career. It’s an incredible gift that he’s had or been able to work at over a period of time. I think the great ones lean into those moments and he leans into having the ball and making the next best play,” Donovan remarked.
