Drake and DeMar DeRozan (Images Credit: Getty Images)
Canadian rapper Drake and American rapper Kendrick Lamar have been feuding since the early 2010s, exchanging several diss tracks over the years. One notable diss track by Lamar, “Not Like Us,” featured a cameo by Sacramento Kings player DeMar DeRozan. Despite the song being released months ago, Drake still holds a grudge against DeRozan for participating in the music video.
Drake made a noteworthy appearance on a Toronto Raptors broadcast during the matchup between the Kings and the Raptors. This event was significant as it included Vince Carter’s jersey retirement ceremony. During the game on Saturday, the Canadian rapper took some shots at DeRozan and made a provocative remark concerning the potential future retirement of the former Raptors star’s jersey.
“If you ever put up a DeRozan banner, I’ll go up there and pull it down myself,” Drake said.
The Raptors selected DeRozan with the ninth overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft. The six-time NBA All-Star played nine seasons with the franchise before being traded to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green.
DeMar DeRozan Speaks Out On Drake’s Disputed Statement
During his time with the Raptors, DeRozan formed a close bond with Drake, whom he considered like a brother. However, following the release of the track ‘Not Like Us,’ their relationship took an unexpected turn.
DeRozan delivered a dominating performance in Saturday’s game against the Raptors, impressing everyone in the Scotiabank Arena with 33 points, four assists, and three rebounds. Unfortunately, his impressive efforts were not enough, as the Kings fell to the Raptors with a final score of 128-131. After the game, the 35-year-old star addressed Drake’s controversial statement about him.
“He’s gonna have a long way to climb to take it down… Tell him good luck.” DeRozan said in a post-game interview.
Basketball fans are buzzing with anticipation as they closely monitor the developing tension between DeRozan and Drake. This intriguing rivalry has already sparked a lot of conversation within the NBA community. Fans are particularly interested in how other players and analysts will respond to this ongoing feud.