Cavaliers Guard Delonte West at last talked about the "personal reasons" that caused him to leave the team for two week earlier this month. West has sought treatment for depression and a mood disorder that he says he has been dealing with his entire life.
"In a sense, you feel like a weaker man because you have to raise your hand and ask for help," West said. "But I found out over the last week that it made me a stronger person. I came back focused, and with the help of some medicine and talking with people on a regular basis, I'm back in good spirits".
West said the feelings of discontent got so great, so overwhelming, that he considered quitting basketball.
"I felt a feeling of anger and I just wanted to throw it all away and quit the team," he said.
It seems West finally realized he needed help after having a run-in with a high school official during a Cavaliers workout October 3rd. West considered the incident a signal that he needed help. Help is what West has received, in the form of therapy and medication.
West returned to the court last night during the Cavaliers loss to the Spurs. West was elated just to be back.
"Being on the court felt like being on the playground as a child again," he said. "I had the time of my life last night."
Our thoughts go out to West, as well as our hopes that he has gotten the help he wants and deserves.
GO CAVS!