Above the Noise: My Story of Chasing Calm

I may be a bit biased, but this will by far be my favorite read of 2024! No doubt about it!!I’ve been an avid DeRozan fan since he first came into the league and have followed his career since, buying gear from each team he has been on, and yes I already have Sacramento gear ready for this upcoming season.Something about DeMar always stood out to me and I couldn’t quite put my finger on it. After I learned he was a huge Kobe fan early on in his career I just chalked it up to that, as Kobe is my all time favorite and I just figured that’s what drew me to liking DeMar, but after reading this book I can see it was more than just that.DeMar was born with a special aura, even getting the nickname “The Blessed One” from an early age, as several people close to him saw his uncapped potential.DeMar has always displayed traits of resilience to me, and from reading his book I can see that came from his father instilling in him to have grit and tenacity, especially through the toughest of situations.This book was a great insight into DeMar’s upbringing and shows that athletes struggle too, it doesn’t matter how much money and fame they have, they still deal with mental blocks, demons and depression. It is truly inspirational that DeMar was able to step out of his comfort zone and allow himself to be vulnerable, which in turn has inspired people from all walks of life to do the same and has opened the door to a previously taboo topic.I have the upmost respect and admiration for DeMar and will continue to root for him along his journey both on and off the court. Keep shining bright like the moon Deebo.

I haven’t sat down to read a whole book in like 20 years. Just never had the desire. I saw this book was coming out when he talked about it on PG’s podcast and immediately ordered it.I was impressed by his openness from start to finish. Talking about his childhood, all the way up until now. To make the most of all of the pain and hardship he went through in the early years to his struggle and acknowledgment with his mental health. Acknowledging it, talking about it and doing something about it is what helps that pathway to recovery grow for so many people. I’m a huge fan of the NBA and have admired his game throughout his career, but I can confidently say I didn’t know about any of the things he went through. What I loved most about the book is the way it was written, it sounded like him. They didn’t fluff it up too much and try and make it sound too poetic. Beautifully written and truly an inspiration!

I just finished reading this book and have recommended it to everyone I’ve spoken to since then, and will continue to do so. It touches on real-life issues, delivered in a way that makes you feel you’re sitting across a table from a friend. Above that, it hits on covid, Black Lives Matter, George Floyd, Jacob Blake. And also the deaths of Nipsey Hussle and Kobe Bryant. It gives a look into the softer side of men we only know as cut through on the court or in the media. And of course, it showcases a love for the game. But it’s more than basketball. It’s a story about family, marriage, resilience, mental health, and the ability to be vulnerable and step into new environments. This is that book that has been missing from high school classrooms. A book that will captivate athletes, but also hold the attention of the entire classroom. It gives the hope that’s needed without sugarcoating reality. It’s relatable. It’s a powerful discussion starter. As a kid who also stared at the moon and still does today, with a background people wouldn’t guess from looking at me, there’s something relatable to everyone. The universal experience of love and grief, life and death. 100/100 recommend.

I haven't read a book in ages. But as soon as I found out that Demar Derozan was writing a book, I knew I had to pick one up. If you want to learn more about Demar, his upbringing, his battle with mental health, what his father meant to him, and how he became the man he is today. You need this book! Thank you Demar, you really are the GOAT!

DeRozan’s willingness to share his struggles with depression and anxiety, topics that are often stigmatized, especially among men and in professional sports. His candidness in discussing the pressures of life, both on and off the court, resonates with anyone who has faced similar internal battles. Readers will appreciate how he connects his personal experiences to universal themes of resilience, perseverance, and the search for meaning beyond societal expectations.

Couldn’t put the book down. DeMar was very honest about his life experiences. I loved reading this book, I finished it in one day because I couldn’t stop reading.

I can’t put the book down. Despite not many of us not having a similar upbringing, DeMar’s openness allows you to relate to him. Above The Noise gives insights to one of the trailblazers for mental health in professional sports.

Great book to read .

Amazing book…honest, inspiring, courageous. A MUST read!!!

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