NBA: Delonte West Breaks Silence on Viral Pandhandling Video

Former NBA star Delonte West has fallen on hard times since leaving the league. The former Dallas Maverick, who has been battling mental health issues and drug addiction, seems to be on the right track after getting help from Dallas Mavericks owner and billionaire Mark Cuban, as well as training for the Big 3. However, a recent video taken in Alexandria, Virginia has shown that the former basketball standout's life may not be back on track anymore.

Delonte West Speaks Out After The Video Surfaced

The Image Direct caught up with the former NBA star after the video was posted online. He admitted to panhandling, stating, "It is what it is."

West insisted that he was OK and that he was just in between jobs. He says he has children, and he has to do what he has to for them. He also said that people can help him, but he still has to do what he must for his two sons.

West's mental health -he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder- and substance abuse problems have been public since he left the league, with concerned fans, former teammates, coaches, and Mark Cuban all reaching out.

Cuban helped Delonte West to rehab in 2020. But according to the Daily Mail, he relapsed in October of last year after being arrested by Florida police.

After Relapse, Delonte West Tried Getting Into Ice Cube's Big 3 League

While Delonte West got arrested again after his rehab, he tried putting his life together afterward. He was shown trying to work out with several NBA guards as he tries to get drafted into the Big 3, a 3-on-3 basketball league by rapper and actor Ice Cube. He was supposed to be part of the league's draft last month, but according to the New York Post, he was a "no-show."

West says the league had so many talented players, and he understands why he did not make the cut. However, he did admit that he was excited about the opportunity and was thankful for the chance.

Despite falling on hard times these past few years, Delonte West seems to be still hopeful of the future. He says he will keep working out and hopes to be part of an NBA coaching staff soon. He added that he is always involved in the game he loves.

TMZ reports that Delonte West still looks to become a head coach or even an assistant coach in the NBA. However, he also admitted how tough the competition was to land a job there. Despite this, he prays that he will be up for discussion in the upcoming season.

The Boston Celtics drafted West as the 24th overall pick for the 2004 NBA draft. He played eight seasons with the league, with stints with the Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Dallas Mavericks.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Rick Martin

WATCH: Former NBA Player Delonte West Spotted Back On The Streets Panhandling!