Former NBA player Kyle Singler recently took to social media with a raw and distressing post about his mental health, stirring concern among basketball fans.
Kyle Singler’s mental health struggles
In a 90-second Instagram video, the former Oklahoma City Thunder forward shared a glimpse of his struggles, revealing fears for his personal safety and frustration over feeling misunderstood and neglected by those around him.
“I fear for my life every day,” Singler, 36, stated in the video.
“People in my community make me look … as if I’m gonna be someone that is gonna be a problem and make things difficult for people when I’m only trying to be helpful.”
The vulnerable message has stayed up on Singler’s Instagram, catching the attention of Miami Heat veteran Kevin Love, who is known for his advocacy of mental health within the NBA.
Love, who has openly shared his own journey with mental health challenges, was quick to respond with a message of encouragement.
“I love you Kyle,” Love commented on the post. “Hit me whenever. Please.”
Kevin Love’s message of support for Kyle Singler
Love also extended his support on X calling on the broader basketball and Oregon communities to show their support.
“To everyone who has spent time with Kyle Singler and whose lives he has touched – please shower him with the love and support he needs+deserves,”Love wrote.
“I would not be who I am today without him. I am forever indebted and love him. To the NBA family, Duke BB family, & South Medford community – let’s show up for one of our own.”
Singler, who shined at Duke as the Most Outstanding Player in the 2010 NCAA Tournament and went on to play for both the Thunder and Detroit Pistons, has largely remained out of the public eye since his retirement in 2019.
His recent post has reminded fans and former teammates that even those with accomplished careers are not immune to mental health battles.