In a recent interview, the two time NBA champion made a stunning admission about his relationship with drugs during his playing days:
“I loved drugs. You’re talking to a real addict… Summertime I did drugs, I ain’t gonna front… I had some great cocaine summers.”
The honesty is brutal. Unflinching. And a stark reminder of how addiction can coexist with incredible professional success.
Odom’s battle with substance abuse has been well-documented. In 2015, he was found unconscious at a Nevada brothel after a four-day crack cocaine binge.
Before the addiction took over, Odom was a force in the NBA. The 6’10” forward won two championships with the Los Angeles Lakers alongside Kobe Bryant. He was named Sixth Man of the Year in 2011.
Odom’s willingness to admit he “loved” drugs even that he had “great” summers while using is a level of candor rarely heard from athletes. There’s no excuse-making. No deflection.
Since his near-death experience, Odom has worked to rebuild his life. He’s been open about his recovery process, speaking at events and sharing his story to help others. His survival is nothing short of miraculous.
Addiction isn’t just something that happens to “bad people.” It happens to champions. It happens to millionaires. It happens to people with everything to live for.
Odom lived through it. He’s still here. And he’s telling the truth no matter how ugly parts of it may be.