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As a collective, the Toronto Raptors may have the NBA’s best shoe game. Leading the Raptors is their Small Forward, DeMar Derozan. Since leaving University of Southern California for the NBA, it’s taken him some time to find his niche but he seems to have finally flourished. Rudy Gay’s departure to Sacramento pushed Derozan into the spotlight and he has delivered. DeRozan looks to continue the Raptors’ success and help in the pursuit for an NBA championship.
The playoffs are the perfect platform to show your greatness. On Tuesday, DeRozan erupted for 30 points, 17 of them coming in the final quarter. Attempting to channel Kobe Bryant’s greatness, he decided to wear the Kobe 9 Elite Hi “Detail”. Here at Kicksologists, we’ve decided to look back on the NBA star to see what he’s done during the regular season and what he had worn on his feet while doing so.
#1. January 22, 2014: “Career High 40 Points”
Leading the team with 22.7 points per game, DeRozan went off for a career high of 40 points versus the Dallas Mavericks. He had shot an efficient 15-22 from the field while staying aggressive and receiving 14 shots at the charity stripe.
Shoes worn: Nike Kobe 8 iD “Red/Black” PE with the Pit Viper pattern.
#2. February 15-16: NBA All-Star Weekend
While participating in the Taco Bell Skills Challenge, he also earned his first NBA All-Star selection. As the Greek Freak and DeMar were unsuccessful, Damian Lillard and Trey Burke were crowned champions of the Skills Challenge. Even though the night belonged to MVP Kyrie Irving, DeMar Derozan played a short 15 minutes while contributing 8 points on 4-7 shooting in a 163-155 Eastern Conference win.
Shoes worn (Skills Challenge): Nike Kobe 8 iD “White/Red” PE
Shoes worn (All-Star Game): Nike Kobe 9 Elite Hi “Maestro”
#3. March 28, 2014 “Boston Celtics”
In the second game of a home and home series, the Raptors looked to sweep after winning in Boston. In a 105-103 win, his 30 points were just enough to earn the victory. He added three rebounds and four assists.
Shoes worn: Air Jordan IV “Blackcat”
#4. March 30, 2014: “Orlando Magic”
In 38 minutes of work, DeMar had dropped 28 points on 14 shots. No, he didn’t sink every shot but he did make 15 of his 16 free throws. Throw in two rebounds, an assist and steal and his stat line led the Raptors to another win pushing their record to 42-31 record.
Shoes worn: Air Jordan III “Doernbecher”
#5. March 12, 2014: “Detroit Pistons”
Being a Raptor has its benefits, especially while wearing Air Jordans. The red, white, and black exactly matches the Chicago Bulls’. The renowned Air Jordan XI made its way onto DeMar’s feet against the Pistons. In that game, he recorded 25 points on 8-20 shooting. Practically flawless, he made 8-9 free throws.
Shoes worn: Air Jordan XI “Bred”
Good luck to DeMar DeRozan and the rest of the Raptors. Here at Kicksologists, we’re excited to see what else they will bring to the court.
