USC basketball has seen some really good players come from the school to turn pro over the years. It’s what has made the school a destination spot especially of late as they have retooled the entire program. However, one of the best players in recent memory has been forward DeMar DeRozan.
DeRozan played for USC during the 2008-2009 season before declaring for the NBA. He was then selected as he ninth overall pick in the 2009 NBA draft by the Toronto Raptors.
He has gone on to be a six-time All-Star level player and someone that is very respected across the NBA. Being from Compton, DeRozan still calls Southern California home despite never playing for one of the teams in the area. But every summer he goes back and visits his old stomping grounds, including a trip to his alma mater. He recently joined the USC basketball teams summer practice and they were very thankful to see him.
It's a cool moment for the players when a NBA player comes to hang out with them. DeRozan is a star in the league so they likely were excited. Having the chance to talk with him about his journey to the league and other things is an awesome experience for the college athletes. DeRozan is all about giving back and this is his way to do so with USC.
During the one year he played with the Trojans, DeRozan averaged 13.9 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. The team made the NCAA tournament and reached the second round before falling to the Michigan State Spartans. His time in college with USC helped him become a lottery level talent and it has helped guide his career.
It’s always nice for him to be able to come home and it’s probably a great feeling to be welcomed with open arms by the school. Maybe having DeRozan there this summer will rub off on the Trojans and they can have a really successful season this coming year.
Once a Trojan, always a Trojan! And DeRozan lives this motto every day.
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