In a vivid exhibition of camaraderie and sportsmanship, Sacramento Kings owner Vivek Ranadive made headlines by donning a "They Not Like Us" shirt at a recent game. This gesture was seen as a tribute to Kings’ star player DeMar DeRozan, whose connection to the phrase dates back to his appearance in Kendrick Lamar's music video titled "Not Like Us."
The Sacramento faithful had plenty to cheer for as the Kings claimed a commanding 122-107 victory over the Toronto Raptors. Just a week prior, the Raptors had edged out a win against the Kings with a tight 131-128 finish, making this latest triumph a gratifying comeback for Sacramento and its fans.
A Sentimental Tribute
Vivek Ranadive's choice of apparel was not just a reflection of team spirit but also a nod to DeRozan, who has a storied history with the Raptors. Drafted by Toronto in 2009, DeRozan spent a significant part of his career with the team until 2018, when he was traded to the San Antonio Spurs. Now donning the Kings’ purple and black, DeRozan continues to build his legacy on the court.
DeRozan's Storied Career
Throughout his career, DeRozan has achieved considerable success, being named an NBA All-Star six times. Known for his scoring prowess and work ethic, he has emerged as a key figure in Sacramento's lineup. His journey from Toronto to San Antonio and now to Sacramento has been marked by both individual accolades and collective ambitions.
The convergence of sports and entertainment adds another layer to the narrative, as highlighted by Drake's presence at the game. In attendance to discuss the jersey retirement of Raptors legend Vince Carter, Drake shares a personal connection with DeRozan. Despite the competitive clash between their teams, the bond between the two remains strong. In an interview with The Sacramento Bee, DeRozan affirmed, "Drake's still my man; none of it changed. It's so easy to get overlooked and look at it for what it looks like, but at the end of the day, it's music, entertainment."
An Enduring Brotherhood
Their friendship extends beyond the basketball court, encapsulated by Drake himself who once described DeRozan as a "brother" in a heartfelt social media post. Drake's loyalty and admiration for his longtime friend underscore the camaraderie that transcends professional ties in the world of sports.
As the Kings relish their recent victory against an old foe, DeRozan's contributions both on and off the court continue to echo through the halls of the Golden 1 Center. Sacramento’s fans remain hopeful that his influence will propel the team to even greater heights as the NBA season progresses. Meanwhile, the mutual respect and friendship between DeRozan and figures like Drake serve as a poignant reminder of the human connections that linger beneath the fierce competition of professional sports.