In today’s NBA, many players are very careful about what they put in their bodies. From ultra-specific diets to intense recovery regimens, modern players do whatever they can to get an edge on the court.
Some players are extremely strict when it comes to their lifestyle choices, with Sacramento Kings star DeMar DeRozan being one example, as he recently revealed that he has never tried alcohol. He explained his reasoning behind never having a drink during an appearance on Dwyane Wade’s podcast.
Kings Star DeMar DeRozan Explains Why He Never Drinks Alcohol
DeRozan has been in the spotlight since he was a top recruit in high school, and he entered the NBA in 2009 as the No. 9 pick in the NBA Draft. The six-time All-Star has had a long, successful career, and he credits his off-court decisions with his longevity.
On ‘Time Out with Dwyane Wade on the WY Network,‘ DeRozan opened up about the sacrifices he has made for basketball.
“It’s a year-round thing. For me, it goes back to making sacrifices I don’t go out, I don’t drink,” DeRozan said. “Never had a drink in my life. Not saying nothing wrong with it.
“I just always looked at from a standpoint of, like, my whole goal of hooping was, like, I want to be able to play as long as I can. You know what I mean? When I came in the league, I used to make fun of all the old heads. I mean, ‘Why you putting ice on?’ They was like, ‘Well, I’m telling you, you better start putting ice on before you start to need it.’ I’m like, ‘Alright f*** it. I’m putting ice on nothing hurting.’ It became such a routine. It’s something that was a necessity for me to have.”
“I don’t drink. Never had a drink in my life.”
When @DeMar_DeRozan says he’s serious about his career, he means it. No drinking, extra recovery, and learning from the ones who came before him. 💯 pic.twitter.com/cbnUzNFElb
— Wy Network by Dwyane Wade (@wynetwork) June 13, 2025
DeRozan was determined to maximize his full potential and extend his career as long as possible, so drinking alcohol didn’t seem worth it to him.
“What all can I do to prolong whatever it is that I want to do? If it’s eating healthy, taking care of myself, you know, I sleep [well]. I just try to find every avenue to try to prolong whatever it is,” DeRozan explained.
Now, even at 35 years old, the six-time All-Star managed to average 22.2 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game on an eFG% of 50.9% entering this season. Now, he is entering his 17th NBA season, and he is still a significant contributor in the league — proof that he’s doing something right and his off-court decisions are clearly working.