Mavericks owner Mark Cuban reportedly picked up troubled former NBA star Delonte West after photos and video of him begging on the streets went viral.
The ex-NBA guard, a father of two, reportedly checked into a drug treatment facility in Florida after being reunited with his mother, thanks to Cuban.
The search for the former first-round pick started last week after a photo of him begging on Dallas streets went viral on social media.
Cuban immediately contacted West’s mother, Delphina Addison, who asked the Mavericks owner to find her son.
The billionaire managed to find West and they arranged to meet at a gas station, TMZ reported. Cuban then took West to a local hotel where he was reunited with his mother.
TMZ also said that West’s family has been trying to convince him to enter rehab.
West, who has bipolar disorder, is now checked into a drug treatment facility, which Cuban has offered to pay for.
West is still married to his second wife, Caressa, but it is not clear if she is still in touch with him.
Former NBA star Jameer Nelson and coach Phil Martelli expressed their concern after videos of West went viral.
Nelson wrote on social media: “I’m sick today. Mental illness is something that a lot of people deal with and don’t even know it, until sometimes it’s too late. I’m not sure what exactly is going on with Dwest but he knows I’m in his corner and will help him get through this.
“Yes, I’ve spoken to him Over the past several months, just trying to be there for him as a friend.”
Nelson added: “And please be mindful, when you posting videos or pictures of somebody. You may think your (sic) helping but you might be hurting them even more. People have kids and their kids don’t deserve to be embarrassed. Please Pray!”
Martelli responded to Nelson’s post, writing: “Over the past several hours I have talked with many who are willing to help – please read and embrace Jameer’s wisdom – we are reaching out to our basketball network to get the professional help Delonte needs. This is so very painful.”
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