The NBA honored Chicago Bulls guard-forward DeMar DeRozan with the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award in March for his outstanding contributions to mental health advocacy and youth support in Chicago.
DeRozan’s dedication to mental health awareness and empowering the youth has earned him this prestigious recognition. Recognizing DeRozan’s impactful efforts, the NBA will present him with the David Robinson trophy, and a $10,000 donation will be made to Coffee, Hip-Hop, and Mental Health, a mental health advocacy.
DeRozan’s commitment to addressing mental health challenges is evident through his various initiatives. DeRozan launched “Dinners with DeMar,” a compelling video series where he engages in meaningful conversations about mental health with current and former NBA players at the dinner table.
Notable guests such as Draymond Green, Damian Lillard, and Dwyane Wade have joined him in transparent discussions, aiming to break the stigma surrounding mental health.
The series, which has garnered over 425,000 views on YouTube, serves as a platform for open dialogue and awareness. DeRozan furthered his advocacy by hosting a premiere of the series at his alma mater, the University of Southern California (USC), fostering discussions on mental health management with student-athletes.
Partnering with Coffee, Hip-Hop & Mental Health (CHHAMH), DeRozan supported efforts to provide free therapy to individuals facing financial barriers in Chicago.
CHHAMH launched a DeMar DeRozan-inspired coffee drink and hoodie, with proceeds funding weekly men’s group therapy meetings at a local coffee shop for a year. DeRozan’s impact extended beyond mental health advocacy as he actively engaged with the Chicago community, particularly in supporting youth initiatives.
Collaborating with Make-A-Wish, he provided a VIP experience to a child and family, including a meet and greet with the Bulls team and courtside seats to a game.
Additionally, DeRozan hosted a young Bulls fan and cancer survivor along with their family on the team plane for an away game, demonstrating his commitment to brightening the lives of others.
His exemplary contributions will be celebrated during the Hawks-Bulls NBA Play-In Tournament game, where he will be presented with the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award by Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations Artūras Karnišovas.
