Delonte West was a fairly successful man in the NBA. He had stints playing alongside LeBron James, Dirk Nowitzki, and a few other big names. The point guard averaged 9.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game in the NBA. The league viewed him as a very good role player to pair with its superstars. He was also good friends with his former teammate LeBron James. This relationship eventually deteriorated after a sinister rumor surfaced in the world.
It was during the 2010 playoffs, James was set to take on the Boston Celtics. It was a very exciting matchup for Delonte West as the Celtics were his former team. However, the Cavaliers were very shaky and James experienced a dip in stats.
The world soon learned about the reason behind the Cavaliers’ downfall. The rumor that went around was that West was having an affair with Gloria James, LeBron’s mother. Both players would part ways as West return the Boston and James went to Miami. Was this the actual reason behind their fallout?
Delonte West denies sleeping with LeBron James’ mother
Ever since the rumors started to spread, Delonte West’s career took a massive dip. He would spend more years in the league before flying overseas to play in China. He would eventually return to the NBA and play in the G League, however, his personality started to fall apart further. West had severe mental health issues and it eventually got him on the streets.
In a 2012 interview with the Dallas Morning News, West said, “Number one, something like that never happened. I don’t know where they got that from. For a strong Black woman like that, for people to try to tear her down, that’s terrible. That’s terrible in so many ways.” He denied having any sort of connection with Gloria James and defended himself from the sick label the world gave him.
Where is Delonte West now?
Delonte West spent time in and out of rehabilitation centers trying to get his act together. The former Cleveland Cavaliers play was often spotted in the streets causing a ruckus. At times he would be spotted on the sidewalk as well. West also found himself getting in trouble with the law. He was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder as well, which explained why he struggled to get back on his feet.
West last played for the Dallas Mavericks in 2012. The owner of the franchise, Mark Cuban developed a good relationship with West. He tried his best to help West out. Cuban paid for West’s rehab which eventually got him and job as well. He would also try out for the Big 3. However, West’s recurring habits would shift him off course once again.
