Bulls’ DeMar DeRozan savors longevity before 15th NBA season opener

Bulls’ DeMar DeRozan savors longevity before 15th NBA season opener
originally appeared on
NBC Sports Chicago

Presented by Nationwide Insurance Agent Jeff Vukovich

Entering his 15^th NBA season, DeMar DeRozan treasures Opening Night like never before.

“It’s incredible, to think about the longevity, playing this game for so long. To still have the drive, motivation, and passion for it,” DeRozan expressed after Tuesday’s practice at the Advocate Center. “I don’t see it as feeling old. It’s more of a blessing to still be on the court.”

DeRozan, at 34 years old, reached the milestone of 1,000 games last season. His first-ever opener took place in 2009 when his Toronto Raptors faced LeBron James, Shaquille O’Neal, and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

“I was terrified. I won’t lie,” DeRozan admitted. “I will never forget: walking out there, it felt like a dream. Stepping on the court with Shaq, who I watched my whole life as an LA native, was surreal. It felt like a dream come true. I even blocked his shot that game. I’ll always remember that moment.”

Indeed, DeRozan successfully blocked an O’Neal layup attempt in the Raptors’ 10-point victory. With the offensive support of Andrea Bargnani, Chris Bosh, and Jose Calderon, DeRozan contributed eight points while taking just six shots and finishing with a team-high plus-11.

Needless to say, his offensive role will be much more significant when the Chicago Bulls face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night at the United Center. However, the feelings and anticipation remain the same.

“It’s always exciting because it marks the start of the journey—the ups and downs, the heartbreak, the learning experiences,” DeRozan said.

Coby White, entering his fifth NBA opener, doesn’t recall what he was doing during DeRozan’s NBA debut when prompted.

But White agrees that there is something special about Opening Night.

“There’s a lot of positive energy, positive talk going around. The vibes are great. We’re thrilled,” White remarked.

For Billy Donovan, the game represents an opportunity to face the franchise that recruited him from college coaching. Donovan coached the Thunder for five seasons and now matches up against Mark Daigneault, whom Donovan first hired in the college ranks at Florida and then again in Oklahoma City.

“I enjoyed my time there and the people I interacted with,” Donovan shared.

Opening Night may only count as one game, but DeRozan wants to use it as a foundation to build the identity he envisions for the Bulls.

“We need to be resilient. We can’t show negativity when things don’t go our way. Whether at home or on the road, we must be one of those teams that persist,” DeRozan emphasized.

The journey begins on Wednesday.

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