

600: Metta World Peace | Mettaphorically Speaking
Dec 16, 2021
Metta World Peace, a former NBA All-Star and mental health advocate, shares his inspiring journey from Ron Artest to embracing his new identity. He discusses growing up in the Queensbridge projects, navigating anger issues, and the infamous Malice at the Palace. Metta humorously reveals his unexpected part-time job at Circuit City while earning millions in the NBA. He emphasizes the importance of mental health, recounting how he thanked his therapist post-championship and remains dedicated to raising awareness and promoting well-being in athletics.
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Name Changes
- Metta World Peace, formerly Ron Artest, changed his name multiple times.
- He considered "So Hood" and "Queensbridge" before settling on Metta World Peace, later adding Sandiford-Artest.
Childhood in the Projects
- Metta World Peace grew up in the projects, exposed to drugs, violence, and gangs.
- He had opportunities for school and family, but lacked guidance on raising a family amidst the pressures.
Basketball as an Escape
- Metta World Peace played basketball to avoid a life of crime, including selling drugs and going to jail.
- Friends gave him money to stay out of trouble, highlighting his community's awareness of his potential.