Ron Artest was named the winner of the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award on Tuesday. Yes, Ron Artest — the same Ron Artest who's drunk cognac at halftime, fought opposing players, coaches and fans alike, and had a few run-ins with the law over the course of the last decade — has been honored for outstanding service and dedication to the community.
And here's the crazy part: He really, truly deserves it.
Artest has had a well-documented battle with mental illness for much of his life. His instability was a big reason that the infamous "Malice at the Palace" brawl escalated in Auburn Hills, Mich., in November 2004. He was suspended for 86 games that season, the harshest penalty this league has ever seen for an on-court incident. Now he's also been given the highest honor awarded for off-court merit.
Artest may be crazy, but he's blessed with the most sane quality he could ask for — self-awareness. He recognized his problems and took steps to address them. After pleading no contest to a misdemeanor charge of domestic violence in 2007, he eagerly accepted a court order of marriage, parenthood and anger management counseling.
Two years later, he thanked his therapist at the podium after helping the Lakers win the NBA Finals.
But Artest has done a lot more in recent years than simply fix himself. He's done his small part for the community at large, helping others afflicted with the same troubles he's fought through.
In October, Artest raffled off his only championship ring, with all the proceeds going to mental health charities.
In December, he pledged to donate next year's salary.
Six years ago, when Artest lost nearly an entire season for what happened in that fateful Pacers-Pistons game, he coughed up $7 million against his will. This time, he's choosing to share his wealth with those in need.
Artest grew up in a rough neighborhood in Queens, and he's risen from nothing to become a champion athlete and millionaire many times over. It took him a while, but he's now grasped the importance of giving back.
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