Charles Oakley and Jayson Williams used to battle in the post during the 90s. Today the once rivals are now working together. Oakley has been a huge influence and supporter of Williams in his efforts to overcome his alcohol addiction. Williams will celebrate one year sober in January. Sports Illustrated’s Jon Wertheim wrote about the two and their developing friendship:
When Williams hit bottom early this year, one of his first calls was to Oakley. Williams knew he needed help and had heard about Epiphany. Volunteering to check the place out, Oakley got in his truck and drove 1,200 miles to Delray Beach from Cleveland, toured the facility and interviewed the founders. Oakley says that while he has no firsthand experience with rehab or substance abuse, he had seen plenty of it secondhand. And he prides himself on his b.s. detector. After inspecting Epiphany, Oakley told Williams, “Go there. And go there now.” Williams grows emotional recalling this. “Oak is the perfect nickname for Charles,” says Williams. “Solid as they come.”
We often hear about sports leagues as a fraternity or a brotherhood. Here is proof that there is room for empathy and connection beyond the game.
