In a recent NBA showdown that highlighted both the sport's competitive spirit and its community, Sacramento Kings owner Vivek Ranadive made waves with his choice of apparel. During the Kings' commanding 122-107 victory over the Toronto Raptors, Ranadive donned a shirt bearing the slogan "They Not Like Us." This phrase seemed to be a nod to Kings' prominent player, DeMar DeRozan, connecting past and present narratives in a poignant display of pride and sportsmanship.
The phrase "They Not Like Us" has its roots in popular culture, specifically linked to DeRozan's appearance in Kendrick Lamar's music video titled "Not Like Us." This act of wearing the phrase appeared to be a subtle, yet powerful gesture by Ranadive, showcasing the respect and admiration for DeRozan's journey and his ties to the Kings.
DeRozan's NBA Journey
DeRozan, a player with a storied NBA career, was initially drafted by the Toronto Raptors in 2009, where he played until 2018. His tenure with the Raptors was marked by significant achievements, including his emergence as a six-time NBA All-Star. Known for his scoring prowess and tenacity on the court, DeRozan left an indelible mark on the Toronto Raptors' franchise.
In 2018, DeRozan was traded to the San Antonio Spurs, a move that was controversial at the time given his deep connection to the Raptors. However, fresh opportunities awaited him, and eventually, he found his way to the Sacramento Kings. With the Kings, DeRozan continues to showcase his exceptional skills, playing a pivotal role in their performances.
The Recent Showdown
The game against the Raptors was not just another fixture on the calendar. It was a testament to the narrative woven around DeRozan and his former team. Just the previous weekend, the Raptors had narrowly defeated the Kings with a 131-128 victory, setting the stage for a high-stakes rematch. This backdrop added layers to the encounter, turning the spotlight onto DeRozan and his evolution as a player.
Icons in Attendance
Adding to the atmosphere’s intensity, the game was graced by the presence of hip-hop mogul Drake. Long associated with the Toronto Raptors as a global ambassador, Drake's appearance was tied to discussions about retiring Vince Carter's jersey—a nod to another Raptors legend. Despite their past connections, DeRozan and Drake share mutual respect that transcends team loyalties. As DeRozan mentioned to The Sacramento Bee, "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." Their friendship continues off the court, with Drake having once referred to DeRozan as a "brother" in a heartfelt social media tribute.
Building on Past Achievements
The context of this matchup against the Raptors was further enriched by DeRozan's personal journey and his impactful legacy in Toronto. While the Kings’ victory was a significant achievement, for DeRozan, it symbolized much more—a culmination of past efforts and present triumphs. His consistent performance and leadership have been invaluable to the Kings, a testament to his enduring talent and professionalism.
The dynamics of old affiliations meeting new allegiances created a compelling narrative resonating with the thousands of fans in attendance and those following the game. The presence of figures like Vivek Ranadive and Drake, paired with the performance of a former Raptors hero now donning a different jersey, crafted a story larger than the final score alone. It reminded everyone that while teams change and players move, the essence of sport—its community, narratives, and shared experiences—remains constant.