In an interview with NBA reporter Marc J. Spears from Andscape, Caris LeVert, the forward for the Cleveland Cavaliers, expressed his gratitude for still being able to play basketball, reflecting on his battle with kidney cancer surgery over three years ago.
LeVert, who underwent surgery for renal cell carcinoma of his left kidney on January 25, 2021, while playing for the Indiana Pacers, acknowledged the unexpected nature of his health challenge. He emphasized how it provided him with perspective on the privilege of pursuing his passion as a profession.
Recalling the toughest moments post-surgery, LeVert credited the support of his loved ones for helping him through. He maintained a positive outlook, focusing on the lessons to be learned from adversity and refusing to let his circumstances bring him down.
Despite the ordeal, LeVert has been a significant contributor to the Cavaliers this season, playing in 63 games and showcasing his versatility with averages of 13.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game. Cavaliers head coach JB Bickerstaff praised LeVert’s adaptability, willingness to contribute off the bench, defensive prowess, and team-oriented mindset, highlighting his impact on both ends of the court.
Selected as the 20th overall pick in the 2016 NBA Draft from Michigan, the 29-year-old Ohio native has maintained solid career statistics across stints with the Brooklyn Nets, Indiana Pacers, and now the Cleveland Cavaliers.