Lamar Odom Opens Up About Drug Struggles During NBA Career

In a recent episode of the “Cousins” podcast hosted by basketball legends Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady, Lamar Odom made shocking revelations about his experiences with substance abuse during his time in the NBA. The former Los Angeles Lakers star candidly discussed the impact of his drug use on his professional career and personal life.

A Candid Confession

During the podcast, Odom acknowledged his struggles with addiction, stating, “I loved drugs. You’re talking to a real addict.” He described how his off-season experiences with cocaine affected his career trajectory, suggesting that his substance use held him back from achieving greater success in basketball.

• No Use During Season: Odom clarified that he refrained from using drugs during the NBA season due to rigorous league testing policies. “If you get caught for sniffing cocaine, that suspension is going to be crazy,” he explained.

• “Great Cocaine Summers”: However, his off-season activities were a different story. Odom admitted, “I had some great cocaine summers,” hinting at the reckless lifestyle he led when not on the court.

The Cost of Addiction

Throughout the interview, Odom voiced regret over how his addiction may have cost him a place in the Hall of Fame. He stated emphatically, “I should be where ya’ll at… in the Fame. Off of straight talent.” He further admitted, “I hurt that by abusing drugs. One hundred percent.”

Here are some key takeaways from his conversation:

• Zoned Out During Games: Odom avoided substance use during games due to strict test protocols.
• Addiction Realization: Acknowledgement of addiction as a significant hurdle in his life and career.
• Hall of Fame Dreams: Strong belief that his potential was diminished by his drug habits.

A Life-Changing Journey

The discussion also touched on Odom’s near-death experience in 2015 at a Nevada brothel, which served as a wake-up call for him. Today, he proudly reveals that he is two years clean from cocaine but still uses marijuana.

Focus on Recovery

Odom aims to leverage his life experiences to support others struggling with addiction. He remarked, “With my story, with my platform — I can save people from this crazy disease that’s f–king America up.” His commitment to spreading awareness about addiction underscores his wish to turn personal struggles into a source of hope for others battling similar issues.

Conclusion

Lamar Odom’s revelations shed light on the often-hidden struggles of professional athletes with addiction. His journey serves as a reminder that success does not come without its challenges and that recovery is possible. By sharing his story, Odom hopes to inspire others to confront their addiction and seek help.

For more information on addiction recovery and support resources, visit Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration and National Institute on Drug Abuse.