DeMar DeRozan has been on a tear lately for the Toronto Raptors, but the reason why may surprise and inspire basketball fans everywhere.
DeRozan's father, Frank, has been battling a kidney disease and has been in poor health lately. As a result, DeRozan went to visit his dad recently in between games to check on him.
Afterwards, DeRozan had the game of this life, per Steve Simmons of the Toronto Star.
DeRozan took an overnight red-eye flight from Los Angeles prior to the Raptors recent game against Atlanta, showed up uncharacteristically late for shootaround that morning, and in the four games since is averaging 33 points a game, which includes his career and franchise high of 52 points against Milwaukee last Monday.
This story is simply incredible. The fact that DeRozan took a tough flight, lost sleep and endured emotional hardship would make any normal person exhausted to the point that they can barely move a pinky, let alone play in a professional basketball game just hours after they've returned.
What's more, DeRozan's numbers have taken an astronomical leap since he's visited his ailing father, per Simmons.
Since coming back from his visit, DeRozan has shot 55% from the floor and a remarkable 54% from three-point land in the past week and a half.
There's no telling how DeRozan will fare statistically for the remainder of the season. But it doesn't really matter. Health is the most important thing, and it takes a backseat to sports.
The only important think is that DeRozan's father returns to full health as quick as possible.
Follow Us
Subscribe