Los Angeles, February 16, 2024 — Former NBA star Lamar Odom has voluntarily entered a residential rehabilitation program following his recent arrest for driving under the influence, sources confirmed. The move signals Odom’s acknowledgment of a continuing battle with marijuana addiction and a commitment to seeking structured treatment.
Facing Addiction, Seeking Support
Odom’s decision comes after years of public struggles with substance use and a desire for long-term health.
- Odom, 45, was arrested earlier this month in Los Angeles after officers observed erratic driving.
- He has publicly stated his decision to enter rehab is “a necessary step toward accountability.”
- Odom has a history of publicized struggles with addiction and the challenges of life after professional sports.
- Toxicology results are pending, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
Odom was arrested earlier this month when Los Angeles police stopped his vehicle. Officers reported observing signs of impaired driving before initiating the traffic stop. No injuries were reported during the incident.
“I’m not proud of the situation, but I am proud of the decision to get help,” Odom said in a statement. “This is about my life, my clarity and my future.”
Law enforcement officials confirmed that Odom cooperated fully with officers at the scene. Toxicology results are currently pending analysis by the Los Angeles Police Department.
A Pattern of Recovery and Relapse
Odom’s choice to seek treatment follows a well-documented history of struggles with substance use and recovery. He has openly discussed past addiction issues, near-fatal health crises, and the difficulties of transitioning out of a professional athletic career.
“This isn’t my first time facing myself,” Odom said in a statement released through his representatives. “Recovery is not a straight line, and I accept that.”
Sources close to Odom indicated the decision to enter rehab was made swiftly, within days of his arrest. One individual familiar with the situation explained that Odom was motivated to act quickly to prevent a recurrence of past mistakes.
“He knows the cost of waiting,” the source said. “He wanted to take control before things spiraled.”
Dr. Alan Reeves, an addiction specialist not involved in Odom’s care, emphasized that addiction affects individuals regardless of their fame or success. “Seeking treatment early can significantly improve outcomes,” he said.
Since retiring from the NBA, Odom has explored various business ventures, made media appearances, and become an advocate for mental health awareness. He has frequently described the transition from professional basketball as a disorienting experience.
“When basketball ended, I lost structure,” Odom shared in a previous interview. “That’s when unhealthy habits found space.”
Odom’s representatives stated he intends to remain in treatment for several weeks, focusing on therapy, wellness practices, and relapse prevention strategies.
Legal proceedings related to the DUI arrest are ongoing, and a court date has not yet been publicly announced.
Despite this recent setback, Odom expressed a sense of cautious optimism. “I still believe in growth,” he said. “I’m doing the work, one day at a time.”
Those close to Odom hope his actions will inspire others to seek help when facing similar challenges. “If my story helps one person choose recovery,” Odom said, “then this moment means something.”
