The Lakers forward is known for his antics— such as showing up to a talk show in his underwear — but he’s becoming famous for talking about an issue that is often concealed: mental health. Artest is funding therapy and mental health awareness through the sale of his championship ring and possibly the donation of his entire $6.79 million 2011-2012 salary.

The NBA champion has already raised enough with his ring raffle — nearly half a million dollars — to hire eight school therapists, he says.

He will reveal July 1 what percentage of next year’s paycheck he plans to donate. He says he might give away the whole thing. — PZS

ESPN:

It takes a dedicated 0.1 percentile-type of person to consider giving away a large percentage of the $6.79 million he is contracted to make next season.

“Either all or some,” Artest said about his donation plans prior to the Lakers’ game against the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday. “You’ll know July 1.”

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“I definitely want to thank … my psychiatrist.”

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#education#los angeles lakers#mental health#philanthropy#sports#therapy