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Above the Noise: My Story of Chasing Calm
From one of the most outspoken and respected NBA athletes comes a groundbreaking and remarkable memoir chronicling a very public struggle with depression, in the hopes that other young men will not suffer alone."As men, and especially Black men, we don’t talk about our mental health enough. We struggle to admit when things aren’t okay, even when it’s obvious to everybody around us. I’ve seen how toxic that can become. I’ve experienced it myself, keeping everything under wraps until your head and heart are full of fire and rage.”DeMar DeRozan, six-time NBA All-Star, has been called a “basketball savant” (ESPN) and “the best closer in the NBA” (GQ)—but when he went public with his depression, it sparked a conversation that reached far beyond the court. By breaking the stigma of speaking out, he added a new, seldom-heard voice to the mental health a successful Black male athlete, openly naming his pain and advocating for others to do the same.Now it’s time to tell the full story. Born and raised in Compton, DeRozan was no stranger to hardship—living in poverty, losing friends to gang violence. In worn-out school gyms and community centers, fueled by hunger and a desire to prove himself, he started to rise, but doubts followed. In Above the Noise, DeRozan opens up about his proudest triumphs and the times he felt so weighed down he couldn't get out of bed. He reflects on what it took to make a name for himself in a new country after getting drafted by the Toronto Raptors, the pressure of playing with veteran athletes as a twenty-year-old rookie, and the pain of losing role models.From a scared, angry kid to a confident father of five, DeRozan traces his journey to basketball stardom and the forces that honed him into the player—and the slowly healing person—he is today. It will encourage anyone who has ever felt alone in their struggles and inspire a new generation of young people to rise above the noise and speak their truth.
240 pages, Paperback
First published September 10, 2024
113 people are currently reading
3609 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
November 1, 2024
Just being a casual basketball fan, I knew of Demar and his time in Toronto, but not that much else about him. With this being a book about his struggles with mental health I picked it up. Since having my own struggles in the past year or so, I like reading about others experience and what they went through and compare it to my own situation.
For a sports biography it was alright. Having just read about Lebron and his life being poor in Ohio, but not getting into gangs, Lamar’s life in California seemed to be filled heavily with almost everyone he knew being in the crips and bloods. It was an interesting comparison.
For an insight into his struggles, this was also alright, I felt like some of it was glazed over on purpose and was really hoping to understand the man and what makes him tick and felt a little robbed of that. The very ending got back some redemption with me which is why I rated it so high.
Overall, interesting life. Classic rags to riches story with some great mental health points and trying to break the stigma. 4 stars
For a sports biography it was alright. Having just read about Lebron and his life being poor in Ohio, but not getting into gangs, Lamar’s life in California seemed to be filled heavily with almost everyone he knew being in the crips and bloods. It was an interesting comparison.
For an insight into his struggles, this was also alright, I felt like some of it was glazed over on purpose and was really hoping to understand the man and what makes him tick and felt a little robbed of that. The very ending got back some redemption with me which is why I rated it so high.
Overall, interesting life. Classic rags to riches story with some great mental health points and trying to break the stigma. 4 stars
November 6, 2024
As a Torontonian, this was a special one. I’ve been a raptors fan since the primo pasta Andrea bargnani days.. the raptors fan base has been through a lot but DeMar was the gift we didn’t deserve.
When we won the championship in 2019, I immediately thought of DeMar. I really enjoyed this book, brought so much context to the midrange goat!! Can’t wait to see his jersey retired one day.
When we won the championship in 2019, I immediately thought of DeMar. I really enjoyed this book, brought so much context to the midrange goat!! Can’t wait to see his jersey retired one day.
September 22, 2024
This is a 5 star book for me without a question. I have followed Demar’s career from when he played in Toronto and even closer since he played in Chicago as I am a Bulls fan. This really showed me a lot about him as a person and I applaud him for talking about things that a lot of athletes stay away from and that is struggles with Mental Health. He really pulls back the curtain and shows everyone that just because he is a professional athlete and his bank account may be large he can still struggle with some of the same things that everyone else does. It’s okay to talk about it. #ItsOkToNotBeOk #AboveTheNoise #NetGalley
January 31, 2025
A fascinating book, told from the perspective of someone, in many ways, who’s lived so many different lives in such a short time. From his upbringing in Compton to signing with the Chicago Bulls as a free agent, this book tells a fascinating story of hard work, determination, god given skill and an incredible support system. Reading it will give you a perspective that so few of us have. I hate that you can’t give decimal ratings on Goodreads, because I would if I could: 4.5/5
October 19, 2024
An easy recommendation for any hoops or sports fan! The message of DeMar’s story isn’t new but he provides a refreshing perspective on being a professional athlete, inner city life, and fatherhood. DeMar’s mental health journey is something anyone can learn from. It’s no surprise why DeMar is considered as one of the best teammates in the entire NBA.
May 22, 2024
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.
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.
July 10, 2024
Excellent memoir from one of my favorite players. Tons of powerful anecdotes, including his struggles with mental health. I think he found a good balance without being too preachy or pushy — more “here’s my story” than “this is what you should do.” I think he gives an honest look at mental health and the resources available, highlighted by stressing the importance of finding the right resources for you and how difficult the process can be. He also has a bunch of cool basketball stories. My only gripe is the same one I had with Iguodala’s book: he isn’t even retired yet! Why tell the story now?
January 11, 2025
A real page turner about the life of one of my favorite players. What a hard and remarkable life he has lived. Well worth the read!
October 1, 2024
4.25 ⭐️
October 14, 2024
When NBA star DeMar DeRozan made a simple tweet to state that he wasn’t okay, no one expected the outpouring of not only support but also the attention that it would lead to the mental health of athletes. While that was probably the best part of his memoir, it is one of the better sports memoirs I have read and one that every basketball fan will want to add to their library.
The format of the book isn’t much different than any other sports memoir – stories about his childhood, who helped push him into the athlete he became, his successes and failures that he endured along the way to where he is now. What made this one stand out from others to me was his refreshing humility. He was raised in Compton and frequently mentions the hard day-to-day life in that section of Los Angeles. He never forgets his roots when he is now living a much different lifestyle and it’s clear from the writing that this isn’t just being told to sound good – he truly does care for that community.
DeRozan is also frank about his personal relationships, whether with teammates, coaches or his wife and children. He is honest about the struggles in his marriage and while his commitment to stay together with her may come across as “staying together for the children,” it is clear that part of his process of dealing with his mental health matters includes ensuring his relationships are strong as well.
And yes, there is plenty of basketball in the book. It was clear that despite changing teams twice (from Toronto to San Antonio to Chicago) when he did not want to leave either time, he was able to quickly adjust and not only be welcomed, but welcomed being in a new city with new teammates despite missing his family. He talks about his all-star seasons in Toronto, his relationship with coach Greg Popovich with the Spurs and his new role with the Bulls in helping them regain some of the glory they had in the days of Michael Jordan.
It's the feeling of refreshing honesty that made this book a very good read and one that I completed fairly quickly. Hopefully this book will not only be a good one for basketball fans, but also for anyone who is dealing with mental health issues. Reading about DeMar’s story is something that hopefully will be able to help others dealing with similar issues.
I wish to thank Harmony Publishing for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are strictly my own.
https://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/20...
The format of the book isn’t much different than any other sports memoir – stories about his childhood, who helped push him into the athlete he became, his successes and failures that he endured along the way to where he is now. What made this one stand out from others to me was his refreshing humility. He was raised in Compton and frequently mentions the hard day-to-day life in that section of Los Angeles. He never forgets his roots when he is now living a much different lifestyle and it’s clear from the writing that this isn’t just being told to sound good – he truly does care for that community.
DeRozan is also frank about his personal relationships, whether with teammates, coaches or his wife and children. He is honest about the struggles in his marriage and while his commitment to stay together with her may come across as “staying together for the children,” it is clear that part of his process of dealing with his mental health matters includes ensuring his relationships are strong as well.
And yes, there is plenty of basketball in the book. It was clear that despite changing teams twice (from Toronto to San Antonio to Chicago) when he did not want to leave either time, he was able to quickly adjust and not only be welcomed, but welcomed being in a new city with new teammates despite missing his family. He talks about his all-star seasons in Toronto, his relationship with coach Greg Popovich with the Spurs and his new role with the Bulls in helping them regain some of the glory they had in the days of Michael Jordan.
It's the feeling of refreshing honesty that made this book a very good read and one that I completed fairly quickly. Hopefully this book will not only be a good one for basketball fans, but also for anyone who is dealing with mental health issues. Reading about DeMar’s story is something that hopefully will be able to help others dealing with similar issues.
I wish to thank Harmony Publishing for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are strictly my own.
https://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/20...
December 2, 2024
4.2 ⭐️
In this book, Deebo (DeRozan) takes readers on a journey from his humble beginnings in Compton, California, to becoming an NBA superstar. He candidly shares the struggles he faced growing up in a tough neighborhood and battling personal demons. DeRozan bravely opens up about his mental health challenges, hoping to dispel the stigma surrounding these issues. Through this book, we are inspired by his resilience and his unwavering advocacy for mental health awareness.
In this book, Deebo (DeRozan) takes readers on a journey from his humble beginnings in Compton, California, to becoming an NBA superstar. He candidly shares the struggles he faced growing up in a tough neighborhood and battling personal demons. DeRozan bravely opens up about his mental health challenges, hoping to dispel the stigma surrounding these issues. Through this book, we are inspired by his resilience and his unwavering advocacy for mental health awareness.
November 8, 2024
I am shocked by how little I knew about DeMar since I’m from Chicago and a huge Bulls fan. I really like how he described his childhood and growing up in Compton, and also how he still goes back to the community. I also think this is a well written memoir for men who struggle with mental health and want to hear from someone like them.
February 7, 2025
One of the best books I've read over the last years. Not only about basketball, being black in the US or mental health, but about life and perseverance.
February 10, 2025
I looved this book. Got through it in two days. Hearing his perspective makes the sting of him being traded from the Raptors hurt way more.
June 17, 2025
This was a really great read!! I've always been a big fan of DeMar and this book gave me an even higher level of respect for him! His capacity for loyalty and his resilience moving forward after loss was really inspiring. Anyone who loves basketball and has used the game as an escape for life's problems will relate, as I did, to DeMar's journey, even though his experiences were obviously very unique!
This book, on one level, is a love letter to basketball and his parents, especially his dad aka The Big Dog. Don't go into the book thinking you will get a tell-all or expose of NBA secrets or innerworkings - DeMar does have some really awesome anecdotes that I enjoyed -- but it's more about his journey towards recognizing his mental health struggles. I like that the book offers no easy answers or final solution - there's no conclusion where DeMar says my mental health is healed, I've won the championship I've always been chasing, etc, etc. The ending is just that he is still a work in progress but self growth continues.
Anyway, I do hope DeMar gets that ship one day, but if he doesn't, he'll always be a legend in my eyes!!
This book, on one level, is a love letter to basketball and his parents, especially his dad aka The Big Dog. Don't go into the book thinking you will get a tell-all or expose of NBA secrets or innerworkings - DeMar does have some really awesome anecdotes that I enjoyed -- but it's more about his journey towards recognizing his mental health struggles. I like that the book offers no easy answers or final solution - there's no conclusion where DeMar says my mental health is healed, I've won the championship I've always been chasing, etc, etc. The ending is just that he is still a work in progress but self growth continues.
Anyway, I do hope DeMar gets that ship one day, but if he doesn't, he'll always be a legend in my eyes!!
November 21, 2024
Actual Rating: 3.75 stars
Listened to audiobook
Listened to audiobook
October 8, 2024
Really good! I wanted to learn about our new Sacramento King and couldn’t put this one down.
September 20, 2024
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’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.
September 27, 2024
I'm a huge DeMar fan, so probably biased. Also appreciate the fact that he was the sacrificial lamb that needed to be sacrificed to bring Kawhi to Toronto.
Really good read though! Love a good "inside baseball" look at athletes lives.
Really good read though! Love a good "inside baseball" look at athletes lives.
November 15, 2024
3.5 🌟.
Picked this one up bc Steph Curry recommended, not because I’m aware of DeMar’s background in the NBA. Appreciated that DeMar has overcome growing up in the hood in Compton & personal tragedies, and learning about his personal relationship with Kobe + how he really felt being traded from the Raptors before they won their championship. He sheds light on mental health issues that not a lot of African-American athletes talk about but he does it in a humble way. I hope he’s been getting the help he needs in therapy now and was kind of hoping for more revelatory depth to his struggles. Unfortunately, this book was missing that but otherwise, proud of his bravery for speaking up and speaking out when others in his position might not do the same.
“People can hide behind money and fame. But at the end of the day you still have to face yourself in the mirror. And if you’re not happy with the person starting back at you, then what does all the wealth in the world matter?”
Picked this one up bc Steph Curry recommended, not because I’m aware of DeMar’s background in the NBA. Appreciated that DeMar has overcome growing up in the hood in Compton & personal tragedies, and learning about his personal relationship with Kobe + how he really felt being traded from the Raptors before they won their championship. He sheds light on mental health issues that not a lot of African-American athletes talk about but he does it in a humble way. I hope he’s been getting the help he needs in therapy now and was kind of hoping for more revelatory depth to his struggles. Unfortunately, this book was missing that but otherwise, proud of his bravery for speaking up and speaking out when others in his position might not do the same.
“People can hide behind money and fame. But at the end of the day you still have to face yourself in the mirror. And if you’re not happy with the person starting back at you, then what does all the wealth in the world matter?”
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May 29, 2025deebo 🥺❤️
November 18, 2025
I love DeMar DeRozan and was heartbroken when he was traded from the Toronto Raptors. I really enjoyed this book and the insight behind the quiet and driven basketball player.
DeMar speaks openly about his mental health struggles and how coping mechanisms developed in his childhood affect his mentality around basketball and processing difficult emotions. It’s clear that his goal with his platform and with this memoir is to help others know that they are not alone.
Similar to DeMar, I have conflicting feelings around his trade. I am glad he landed with such a welcoming team in the Spurs after his trade from Toronto, but it really did feel like breaking up a family. Knowing he loved us as much as we loved him made me happy.
It was really touching and sad to hear about his personal experiences with Kobe Bryant and how his death affected him. He also talks about dealing with the illness and death of his father and his childhood friend. This may be triggering to some readers, but plays an important role in his life and story. I recommend this to any Raptors fans, or anyone who is interested in the perspective of a professional athlete when it comes to mental health.
DeMar speaks openly about his mental health struggles and how coping mechanisms developed in his childhood affect his mentality around basketball and processing difficult emotions. It’s clear that his goal with his platform and with this memoir is to help others know that they are not alone.
Similar to DeMar, I have conflicting feelings around his trade. I am glad he landed with such a welcoming team in the Spurs after his trade from Toronto, but it really did feel like breaking up a family. Knowing he loved us as much as we loved him made me happy.
It was really touching and sad to hear about his personal experiences with Kobe Bryant and how his death affected him. He also talks about dealing with the illness and death of his father and his childhood friend. This may be triggering to some readers, but plays an important role in his life and story. I recommend this to any Raptors fans, or anyone who is interested in the perspective of a professional athlete when it comes to mental health.
September 24, 2024
Just freaking wonderful.
I picked this one up once DeMar signed with the Kings, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this. His story is one of overcoming adversity, leaving a difficult childhood environment, and learning about himself through his struggles with mental health. His voice is clear and the layout of his story was thoughtful and engaging. It's great for fans to get a peek behind the curtain of our favorite athletes to see that they are truly just humans; we can practice empathy, understanding, and loving kindness towards each other.
I cried throughout his sections about being traded to the Spurs (and seeing how truly wonderful and authentic Coach Pop really is), Kobe Bryant's shocking death, and the inevitable season shutdown due to the pandemic. DeMar's story is one of resilience, family, and self-actualization. I would recommend this for fans of the Kings, DeMar, and basketball in general, as well as those interested in the lives of celebrities and mental health.
I picked this one up once DeMar signed with the Kings, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed reading this. His story is one of overcoming adversity, leaving a difficult childhood environment, and learning about himself through his struggles with mental health. His voice is clear and the layout of his story was thoughtful and engaging. It's great for fans to get a peek behind the curtain of our favorite athletes to see that they are truly just humans; we can practice empathy, understanding, and loving kindness towards each other.
I cried throughout his sections about being traded to the Spurs (and seeing how truly wonderful and authentic Coach Pop really is), Kobe Bryant's shocking death, and the inevitable season shutdown due to the pandemic. DeMar's story is one of resilience, family, and self-actualization. I would recommend this for fans of the Kings, DeMar, and basketball in general, as well as those interested in the lives of celebrities and mental health.
January 30, 2025
A very brutal look into who DeMar actually is. DeMar I read the book DeMar I liked it. He’s honest. Blunt, but honest. He needs to get over getting traded, I’m sorry but he does. He’ll sign his 1 day when he retires or maybe he’ll get to suit up for the Raptors in a Garrett Temple role one day. I think him and Aaron Rodgers would actually be best friends. I think DeMar would like ayahuasca.
Dude please learn what a condom is for gods sake.
I thought he would talk more about his life in Canada in general. Didn’t really talk about his *multiple* injuries or his community work.
I am worried for him once basketball ends. This book kind of reads as a suicide note towards the end. He’s more or less admitting the depression is winning. All he has is his daughters, basketball and a failing relationship.
I don’t think we will ever understand how much Toronto meant to DeMar, and still does to this day.
Dude please learn what a condom is for gods sake.
I thought he would talk more about his life in Canada in general. Didn’t really talk about his *multiple* injuries or his community work.
I am worried for him once basketball ends. This book kind of reads as a suicide note towards the end. He’s more or less admitting the depression is winning. All he has is his daughters, basketball and a failing relationship.
I don’t think we will ever understand how much Toronto meant to DeMar, and still does to this day.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2024
I don’t know how to review this book, it was cool to read about Demar, as he was my whole childhood watching basketball. It was cool and inspiring to read about his battle with mental health. I would not say it was the best sports autobiography I have ever read but it was definitely not the worst.
I may have liked it more if I still followed basketball like I used to, I have slowed down in how much I have followed it over the last couple of years.
I may have liked it more if I still followed basketball like I used to, I have slowed down in how much I have followed it over the last couple of years.
February 1, 2025
Loved reading DeMar’s story. He’s currently on the Sacramento Kings, (my hometown team), and I enjoyed reading how he has navigated his career prior to Sacramento. He joined the Kings after his book came out so there is no mention of the Kings, but still a very warming autobiography. His strength and resilience was seen on and off the court, and I respect him for sharing his vulnerabilities, especially around mental health and being a pro athlete.
November 6, 2024
Read via audio on Libby.
As a Raptors fan, this was obviously a must read for me. I really wish we could have won with DeMar. We’ll never know now if it would have happened. Haha he even mentions his daughter’s screaming during the free throws in that play-in game with Bulls v Raps! Now that wasn’t so fun to witness for me, as a Raps fan.
As a Raptors fan, this was obviously a must read for me. I really wish we could have won with DeMar. We’ll never know now if it would have happened. Haha he even mentions his daughter’s screaming during the free throws in that play-in game with Bulls v Raps! Now that wasn’t so fun to witness for me, as a Raps fan.
January 22, 2025
4.5 I thought the last 15% was a bit boring but I’ve always like Demar’s vibes despite barely watching basketball and this book just made me love him more. Also related to a lot of things that he was saying and one part especially just clicked for me and perfectly described something I’ve been feeling but couldn’t pinpoint. Loved it overall and I’m inspired to be more hardworking 🥹
March 25, 2025
Wow! The vulnerability to share all the feelings and hardships; Demar, you are a wonderful human! Thank you for making mental health, especially for black men, be a topic to share and make connection with vs shunning those feelings. 5/5
May 31, 2025
“Above The Noise” looks at the life and career of NBA player DeMarr DeRozan. The story is a bit of a roller coaster with some of the aspects very interesting and others no as much. The aspects that make DeRozan’s a bit more interesting are his childhood, growing up in gang-infested Compton, California and his struggles with depression. Just when the reader feels that the story is falling into the typical athlete autobiography and becoming dull, it swerves a bit to become much heavier and as a result more interesting. His connection of his childhood traumas and mental illness ups the ante. Overall, a surprisingly interesting athlete autobiography.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews