DeMar DeRozan expresses love to the city of Chicago for embracing him

Deebo's time with the Bulls has meant the world to him.

© Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

All-star wingman DeMar DeRozan has nothing but love and appreciation for the city of Chicago and the franchise, who have embraced the veteran in as meaningful a way as possible. The 33-year-old just finished the second year of a three-year, $81.9 million contract, albeit not in the way he had expected, especially after making such a splash in his first season with the Chicago Bulls last year.

It means everything to DeRozan

Playing with the Bulls has meant everything to the midrange maestro, especially after not having much success during his stint with the San Antonio Spurs. There, he missed the NBA Playoffs in two out of the three years. He eventually got traded to the Bulls in 2021, where he has become one of the team's undisputed leaders. His career also got a much-needed shot in the arm, as he has made the All-Star team in consecutive seasons.

"Chicago's been everything for me, honestly," expressed DeRozan. "I can't even find the words of appreciation and love that this organization and these fans have given to me. Just allowing me to be me, allowing me to be the person I always knew I was career-wise, and embracing it. It's been amazing."

Incredible journey

It has been an incredible journey for the former USC Trojan, who spent his first nine seasons in Toronto before getting traded to San Antonio for Kawhi Leonard. DeRozan added that helping the Bulls return to NBA prominence has been an added bonus.

"It's a hell of a story, especially with the route I took being in San Antonio three years. Coming here and just kind of helping this organization and this city get back on the map," shared DeRozan.

Deebo is entering the final year of his Bulls' deal, and so far, there have been no talks of an extension just yet. After getting eliminated from playoff contention last weekend, the Bulls now face a long offseason ahead that includes a high-profile decision with DeRozan's future in Chicago.

The All-Star still has plenty of game left, and the Bulls would be wise to retain one of their most reliable players.