Lakers News: Lamar Odom is clean

Lamar Odom remains one of the most likable Los Angeles Lakers in the franchise’s storied history. The success he enjoyed while while wearing his heart on his sleeve made fans adore him — as they should. That he is clean should bring a smile to everyone’s face.

When Odom was found nearly dead in a Las Vegas brothel, you can imagine the outpouring of support regardless of the situation. Yes, there were some people who said he had himself to blame, but those idiots don’t count. They’re idiots.

Now, as Odom has made a miraculous recovery, it’s great to see he isn’t taking this second chance for granted. In a recent Q & A with US Weekly’s Ian Drew, Odom held nothing back about the path that led him to that fateful day, and the steps he’s taken to avoid that place at all costs since.

As always, Odom was remarkably forthcoming throughout the sit-down, and provided the best news you’ll see today. On whether he is clean:

Of course. Living sober, meaning no drugs, is a great feeling. Being in the moment is important — how you react, respond, create. If I would have done coke last night, you would have gotten some dickhead here trying to get out of here fast. But you’re getting Lamar now.

His daughter played a very active role in making sure that happens. This is what family is for.

My daughter gave me the ultimatum to go. She said, “Pops, you get help or I won’t talk to you.” I think she saw it in my behavior. Coke is a real psychological drug. You can be getting high and feeling great and then on the way down cursing yourself out. So I think it was one of those moments on the way down. This last time I checked into rehab, I was able to stay the whole 30 days and get the most out of it. I learned about addiction and that it’s a brain disease. The choices we make when our brain is diseased are involuntary. So it was important and life-changing. My kids were really scared that their dad wasn’t going to be here. It was good bonding time with them when they came to see me. They said, “Dad, we want you to be here.” I was honest with them. There is no reason to lie now. But it was good for them to know it is a disease and one I may pass back to them.

For those who understand everything Odom has been through, seeing him come out on the other side stronger than when his life started to get away from him is... well, there are no words, honestly.

For those who don’t have that context, a quick google search is in line. Just know it includes losing parents, parental figures, children and friends.

Congratulations, Lamar. We’ve been pulling for you since day one and that isn’t changing anytime soon.