Although a Compton native, DeMar DeRozan became a staple in Toronto during his time with the Raptors. Tonight, he makes his first return to Toronto since his trade to the Spurs. Tonight, he's the enemy of the Raptors but it's clear that the city of Toronto has unconditional love for the man.
Demar DeRozan made his triumphant return to Toronto tonight for the Spurs vs. Raptors. The rapper was met with a standing ovation by the crowd and the players on the court, many of whom clearly miss having him as a teammate. The Raptors made a huge spectacle of his return, even sharing a tribute video highlighting some of his most memorable moments during his time with the Raptors.
The love Toronto has for DeRozan is undoubtedly reciprocated. Speaking to ESPN after he was traded, he explained that his time in Toronto is something that he'll never forget.
"I could name a million things that went on in Toronto that's priceless," he said. "From the fans to everything. You know, from All-Star being there to seeing Jurassic Park for the first time. So many moments, man. It's something I'll never forget and without a doubt, it's no replacing Toronto in my heart and my mindset because, as I said, I put it all and laid it all out there just to see people talk about -- even just mentioned in being the greatest player in Raptors history."