© Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports
DeMar DeRozan explains why he isn't big on "extra theatrics"
Chicago Bulls wingman DeMar DeRozan is an aversion to how NBA basketball is played these days. While most players try to take as many three-pointers as possible, Deebo is content to master the midrange game. And while many players relish the game's emotional aspect—be it over-the-top celebrations or trash-talking—DeRozan chooses to keep it lowkey.
In an interview following their loss to the Milwaukee Bucks last Friday, DeRozan explained his reasoning for not being a fan of the “extra theatrics” in the NBA.
Big on respect
The subject matter was brought to the forefront after the Bucks’ Bobby Portis grabbed a rebound away from DeRozan and stared at him as he lay on the ground. Peeved by Portis’ antics, DeRozan chased Portis and fouled him hard, resulting in a flagrant 1. After the game, DeRozan shared how he doesn’t take kindly to anyone flexing on him.
“As long as I’ve played the game, I’m big on respect,” DeRozan shared.
“I don’t play the whole games staring down somebody, trying to disrespect anybody. I’m all about competing, doing your thing, all of that. Anything disrespectful, any type of way, I don’t accept that. Because I wouldn’t do it to nobody else, or stand over somebody or look over somebody. It’s just my respect of the game. When I feel like it’s done to me, that’s when I take it a certain way.”
Just play basketball
Deebo practices what he preaches. Despite his aerial acrobatics or crunchtime flair, he never tries to embarrass an opponent. He just goes out there and plays basketball. And that mindset has earned him the respect of his peers and fans. DeRozan focuses on playing basketball at the highest level in a league where trash-talking and showboating can be seen as part of the game.
“He did it one time; that’s all it takes for me,” DeRozan said, recalling the play.
“I don’t care who it is; it could be the janitor in the hallway. Look at me a certain type of way, just play basketball, get the rebound, and play. I’ve never been a player with the extra theatrics.”
