This book has fundamentally changed how I will watch any NBA game going forward, and I will hold DeMar in even higher esteem. This is a raw, engaging work. DeMar opens up about his struggles and childhood, offering an "under the hood" and intimate glimpse into his life. There's a bravery in his openness about mental health struggles that can't help but inspire. I appreciate the early opportunity to read the book - thank you, NetGalley. I highly recommend Above the Noise.

"Above the Noise: My Story of Chasing Calm" by NBA star DeMar DeRozan is an essential read for anyone struggling with mental health issues. As a therapist, I highly recommend this memoir because it offers an honest and relatable account of battling depression, especially from the perspective of a successful Black male athlete.

DeRozan, a six-time All-Star, shares his journey from a challenging upbringing in Compton, dealing with poverty and violence, to becoming an NBA star while facing deep emotional struggles. His candid reflections on his family, his admiration for Kobe Bryant, and the support he received from Coach Pop after losing his father provide valuable insights into the importance of community and support systems.

What stands out in this book is DeRozan's vulnerability and openness about his feelings, which is often rare among athletes. He emphasizes the importance of keeping family close and giving back to the community, offering a refreshing perspective on the realities of being an athlete.

For clients dealing with depression, this book sheds light on how to cope with emotional pain and the importance of speaking out. DeRozan’s story is a powerful reminder that even those who seem strong and successful can struggle and that it's okay to seek help. His journey will inspire readers to confront their own challenges and find healing through honesty and support.

When I saw this book, I was immediately interested as I knew he had played for the San Antonio Spurs for a few years, and being a Spurs fan, I wanted to learn more about his life before, during, and after the Spurs.

He grew up in Compton, CA. He didn’t get involved with gangs, but he had a lot of people close to him in the gangs. Some of those people died or went to jail, but he persevered and used his time to be a better basketball player.

He played one year at USC, and then was drafted by the Toronto Raptors. He was traded to the Spurs, and a few years later, the Spurs traded him to Chicago. I did enjoy reading about his high school, college, and NBA playing days.

He was very open about his life in Compton, as well as his depression as a professional athlete.

Overall, I enjoyed the book.

Above the Noise is a fantastically written book by NBA superstar DeMar DeRozan telling his full story about how has been able to overcome the multitude of obstacles life has thrown his way. Starting with his early life growing up around gang violence and poverty in Compton, with the help of his father guiding him along the way he was able to rise above and make it to college and then to NBA.

The main focus for the second half of the book talks about DeMar taking on the mental health struggle of carrying the load for so many people for so long with no release. I thought this portion of the book was done exceptionally well. He talks about the struggles of having children while being on the road for work from September through May of every year. He also touched on the passing of his father and what that did to mental health.

This was one of my favorite books I’ve read in a long time. DeMar absolutely crushed it and I plan to pick up a physical copy when it releases on September 10th, 2024. I would absolutely recommend this to non-sports fans as there are many items in here that I believe anyone can learn from.

This book was provided to me in exchange for my honest and fair opinion. Special thanks to @netgalley for providing me an advanced copy.