Lamar Odom Opens Up About Struggles with Addiction, Reveals Cocaine Use

Former NBA player Lamar Odom, a two-time champion with the Los Angeles Lakers, has recently spoken openly about his battles with addiction, specifically detailing his use of cocaine during his career. Odom’s revelations shed light on a period of his life marked by both athletic success and personal turmoil.

A History of Substance Use

Odom described a pattern of substance use, particularly during the summers between seasons. He acknowledged a long-term struggle, identifying himself as an addict.

“You’re talking to a real addict. He used cocaine, he had no obligations.”

Lamar Odom

He clarified that his drug use did not occur during the playing season, stating, I didn’t do drugs while I played, but in the summers, I did. It would be crazy if I did cocaine and played at the same time. He described periods of incredible summers of cocaine, admitting to a mindset focused on circumventing consequences.

Near-Fatal Overdose and its Aftermath

Odom’s struggles reached a critical point in 2015 when he was found unconscious at a Nevada brothel. Reports indicated a likely overdose involving cocaine and other substances. He suffered 12 seizures, six strokes, and two cardiac arrests.

Odom recently completed a 30-day rehabilitation program after a DUI arrest, continuing his journey toward recovery.

Impact on Career and Legacy

Odom reflected on the potential impact of his addiction on his basketball career, suggesting he possessed the talent to reach even greater heights.

“I had some incredible summers of cocaine. I was in control, but when you have the mind of a drunk, you think about how to cheat the system. And that’s what I did, cocaine parties”

Lamar Odom

He stated, But my greatness and my legacy… Yes, I damaged them with drug abuse. 100%.

Early Life and Addiction Origins

Odom traced the roots of his substance use back to his childhood, noting his father’s struggle with heroin addiction and his own early experimentation with marijuana. He connected his drug use to the trauma of losing his mother at a young age.

“Marijuana. Many people don’t inherit addiction genetically. My father was a heroin addict. Marijuana doesn’t get you high, like you’re saying, ‘Let me endeavor cocaine.’ I started smoking when I was 14 or 15. It’s also a trauma. My mother died when I was 12… You’re going to explode after losing your mother, my mother was my best friend… I remember when I was 10 I told my mother I was going to the NBA and I bought her a huge house, and at 12 was no longer there.”

Lamar Odom

FAQ

• What did Lamar Odom say about his drug use? He admitted to using cocaine, particularly during the summers, and acknowledged his struggles with addiction.
• What happened to Lamar Odom in 2015? He was found unconscious at a Nevada brothel and suffered a near-fatal overdose.
• Did Lamar Odom play for any teams outside of the NBA? Yes, he played for Laboral Kutxa Baskonia.

Odom’s story serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by athletes and the devastating consequences of addiction. His willingness to share his experiences offers a message of hope and a call for greater awareness and support for those battling substance abuse.