Former NBA Star Delonte West Details His Mental Health Struggles: I’m Losing My Thoughts, Sometimes I Forget I Played Basketball

Former NBA Star Delonte West Details His Mental Health Struggles: I’m Losing My Thoughts, Sometimes I Forget I Played Basketball

It hasn’t been an easy journey for Delonte West.

The former NBA player has struggled with bipolar disorder, mental health problems and substance abuse, which has led him down a road of apparent homelessness. His most recent moment of concern comes after he was seen panhandling on Richmond Highway in Alexandria, Va.

During an interview with YouTuber Shiakuro, Delonte West opened up about the “amazing” opportunity he received when he linked up with Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban. He also shared details of his personal battles.

In the caption for his video, Shiakuro explained that he has grown up in Virginia his entire life. While he has never ever been to a sports game, Delonte West is one of his favorite players. He wrote:

“My brothers & I been playing our Playstation who knows how long!!!! Delonte West Is personally one of my favorite players to ever play with in 2k.. Shot so smooth Green for days the real ones know !!

The reason I stated these things is because I just want YOU the audience to know this was a Dream Come True !!!! young kid from Africa would have never dreamed of meeting a Lebron James, Kobe Bryant!! etc…

I watched Delonte on the TV screen for some years and seen he was in my state and to go further !!! my neighborhood!!! I couldn’t pass this opportunity up at all!!! I refused!!”

West explained to Shiakuro that while things may not appear well for him on the outside, he still has faith in God and he knows things are working out according to his plan.

He said,

“I suffered from mental health you know, I got early stages of the mess. I’m just losing my thoughts, man. I thank God for pulling up, man. Sometimes I forget I even played basketball.”

Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is an unpredictable disease of the central nervous system that impairs communication with the brain, as well as between the brain and body.

West continued,

“God knows what he’s doing. If any other thing would’ve happened differently, then me and you wouldn’t be sitting right here talking. So look at the joy and love that we’re bringing right now.

During his eight-year career in the NBA, West played for the Boston Celtics, Seattle SuperSonics, Cleveland Cavaliers and Dallas Mavericks.

In February, he started working out again in the hopes of getting into Ice Cube‘s Big 3 3-on-3 basketball league, but he reportedly “no-showed” for the league’s draft. Despite falling on hard times, West remains hopeful for a better future and positive outcome. He said,

Let’s all continue to send our thoughts and prayers to Delonte West!

[VIA 1, 2]