DeMar DeRozan Embraces Final NBA Seasons with Kings

36-year-old veteran plays every game with focus and joy despite challenging season

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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DeMar DeRozan, the six-time NBA All-Star, is embracing the final years of his professional basketball career with the Sacramento Kings. Despite a difficult 2025-26 campaign, the 36-year-old has maintained an unwavering work ethic and positive attitude, playing in all 63 games so far this season and chasing historic scoring milestones as he nears retirement.

Why it matters

DeRozan's commitment to playing at a high level late in his career serves as an inspiration to other veteran athletes, showcasing the importance of cherishing each moment and finding joy in the game. His pursuit of scoring records also highlights his lasting impact on the NBA.

The details

DeRozan has averaged 18.2 points, 3.9 assists, and 3.0 rebounds per game this season while shooting 49.0 percent from the field. He recently passed Paul Pierce to move into 23rd on the NBA's all-time scoring list and will temporarily overtake Stephen Curry for 22nd in his next game. By the end of the season, DeRozan could surpass George Gervin and move into the top 20 of NBA scoring history.

  • DeRozan is 36 years old and will turn 37 in August.
  • DeRozan has played in all 63 of the Kings' games so far this season.

The players

DeMar DeRozan

A six-time NBA All-Star who is currently playing for the Sacramento Kings in the final years of his professional basketball career.

Paul Pierce

A former NBA player who DeRozan recently passed on the league's all-time scoring list.

Stephen Curry

A current NBA player who DeRozan will temporarily overtake on the all-time scoring list while Curry is sidelined with an injury.

George Gervin

A former NBA player who DeRozan could surpass and move into the top 20 of the league's all-time scoring list by the end of the season.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, I mean everybody got to find their own joy, whatever way that is. For me, you know, you can't take these moments for granted. Just being able to play the game of basketball. You know, me 17 years in, you never know when your last game going to be. So for me, just being able to have the ability, the opportunity to still go out there and play, you know, for me, that's what keeps me going, keeps my joy there because you just never know.”

— DeMar DeRozan (SacTown Sports 1140)

“I'm closer to the end than anything. For me, I just want to enjoy every single moment that I have to play basketball.”

— DeMar DeRozan (SacTown Sports 1140)

What’s next

DeRozan will look to continue his strong play and climb higher on the NBA's all-time scoring list as the Kings' season progresses.

The takeaway

DeRozan's dedication to his craft and appreciation for the game, even in the twilight of his career, serves as an inspiring example for other veteran athletes. His pursuit of scoring records highlights his lasting impact on the NBA and the importance of cherishing each moment on the court.