A video circulating showing former NBA player Delonte West handcuffed and speaking incoherently has caught the attention of fans and NBA players who are concerned about the homeless-once-star player.
The video was shot by police body cam moments after the 36-year-old former Cleveland Cavalier was beaten up on the streets of Washington, D.C. He can be heard describing remnants of an altercation that took place before going into a rant where he makes reference to “being the president,” amongst other imperceptible comments. In another video, West is shown on the ground with a man standing over him, assumingly the individual who had beat him up.
Fans and athletes alike quickly took to social media to voice their concerns over his deteriorating condition, calling on the NBA to step in and assist the player who once had a $16 million salary.
Former teammate Jameer Nelson tweeted, “I’m sick to my stomach right now seeing the videos of Delonte.” Wide receiver for the New Orleans Saints also tweeted, “I see a lot dumb comments where folks making fun of Delonte west… this is not a joking matter.”
West has reportedly been homeless and living on the street since 2016. A family member of the former NBA guard, who also spent time overseas in China, revealed that he has been struggling with mental health issues, specifically bipolar disorder, according to Complex.
The 6-foot-3 athlete played in the NBA for seven seasons after being drafted 24th overall by the Boston Celtics in the 2004 NBA Draft. He played with them for three seasons before being traded to the Seattle Supersonics, now called the Oklahoma City Thunder. Afterward, West was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers and spent two and a half seasons with the team before heading back to the Celtics, then on to the Dallas Mavericks. He has been out of the league since the 2011-12 season. However, he was able to play in the G League in 2013 before playing ball professionally in China.
Although he was seen in handcuffs in the footage, it is not clear whether or not he was arrested for anything.
