NBA fans already knew Victor Oladipo was a great player, but now, the rest of the world is learning about how he’s also a remarkable human being.
Victor Oladipo enjoyed a breakout season with the Indiana Pacers. Back in the state where he starred for the Indiana Hoosiers, Oladipo had a career year to put himself among the best guards in the NBA and a player who will contend for many All-Star appearances and playoff appearances over the coming years.
But on the same day, the Pacers were eliminated by the Cleveland Cavaliers, Oladipo did something much greater than anything he’s done on the court.
When Oladipo learned 10-year-old fan Cameron Kirk was facing a battle with Leukemia, he sent him a letter of support and encouragement proving why he’s one of the game’s best role models.
"I recently heard about your battle with leukemia, and I just wanted to encourage you to stay strong! I know this is a scary and frustrating time right now, but you must believe in yourself and everyone else around you that is helping you get through this time.May God give you the strength, comfort and special blessings that you face each new day. No matter the road you are given, remember to never give up. You never know what God has planned for your life.I wish you all the best through your treatment and encourage you to keep a positive attitude and listen to your doctors, nurses and parents – they are there to help you win this battle! All my teammates and I are #CameronStrong."
Imagine getting this letter from one of your biggest role models in sports while facing the biggest fight of your life at only 10 years old. This is an incredible gesture from Oladipo and I think it’s going a long way toward cementing himself as one of the greatest gentlemen in the game today.
And for Cameron, we are all rooting for you to kick cancer’s butt. Hopefully, he’ll be able to make it to a lot of Pacers games next season and spend some quality time with Oladipo and the rest of the team.