What happened: His parents warned that any damage would be his responsibility. He kept the laces loose to prevent creasing and carried the habit into his professional career.
Why it matters: The routine grew from needing one pair of shoes to serve both basketball and school. A childhood effort to preserve them ultimately became part of his on-court identity.
By the numbers: The habit began when DeRozan was 11 years old.
What to watch: DeRozan next enters his 18th NBA season on a $3.9 million deal.