Basketball Journalists Recognize LA Lakers F Ron Artest's Dedication to Community as Stunning Image Reversal Continues
Ron Artest was awarded 2010-11 J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award today, in recognition of his efforts to raise awareness and funds for mental-health issues.
The award, which is given by a panel of 150 basketball writers nationwide, continues an amazing evolution of Artest's public image that truly began when he joined the Lakers.
Just a few years ago, when one thought of Ron Artest's activities off the court, images came to mind of splattered beer and flying fists in the stands at the Palace of Auburn Hills.
Even for years after "The Malice at the Palace" and Artest's subsequent year-ending suspension, he was known as an erratic, undependable player who was equally focused on promoting his nascent record label as pursuing an NBA championship.
Since joining the Lakers, that's all changed. As a player, Artest is now known for sacrificing money and stats to try to fit in with an established team as a supporting player.
As a person, he is now known for his joyous, unfiltered press conference following the Lakers' triumph in last year's NBA Finals, in which he thanked his psychiatrist and displayed a genuine enthusiasm that is uncommon in today's professional athletes.
Today, the transformation seems complete, as it's not even surprising to learn that Ron Artest has won an award for his good deeds off the court.
Here is Artest's reaction to the award, via the Los Angeles Times:
"I'm not going to tell you there it's up there with the NBA championship, but it's definitely over the Defensive Player of the Year award that I got," said Artest, who won that honor for the 2003-04 season. "It's important because there are kids here in America who aren't doing well. I want to see those kids have an opportunity to succeed, whether they're on drugs, are abused or have a lack of confidence, bullied, cyber bullied or have family issues. I'm trying to help out and bring awareness."
For more on the Lakers supporting players who must step up in their series with the New Orleans Hornets, click here.
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