Ex-Lakers Star Responds to Former Potus Joe Biden’s Cancer Diagnosis With Heartfelt Prayer

3 min read

Regardless of your political stance, some moments transcend the divide. Former President Joe Biden, 82, has been diagnosed with prostate cancer that has spread to his bones—a life-threatening development confirmed in a statement from his office. The diagnosis came after a recent doctor’s visit prompted by urinary symptoms. Having stepped down from office in January, Biden now faces one of the most difficult battles of his life. And among those offering support is former Lakers star Metta World Peace, whose message was one of hope and compassion.

The diagnosis isn’t an easy one either. Medical reports describe it as an aggressive form of cancer, marked by a Gleason score of 9 out of 10. According to Cancer Research UK, this places it in the high-grade category, where the disease can spread rapidly. No surprise, then, that Metta World Peace didn’t hold back from sending his best wishes.

“Get better President Biden,” Metta wrote on his Instagram story, which included Vice President Kamala Harris’s heartfelt post. “Doug and I are saddened to learn of President Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis. We are keeping him, Dr. Biden, and their entire family in our hearts and prayers during this time. Joe is a fighter…” Harris expressed.

 

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Meanwhile, Biden and his loved ones are reportedly evaluating their options for treatment. Encouragingly, his office noted that the cancer is hormone-sensitive, suggesting it can be treated and possibly controlled. And as news of his diagnosis made headlines, support came pouring in from across political lines. Even active President Donald Trump weighed in, posting on Truth Social that he and Melania “are saddened to hear about Joe Biden’s recent medical diagnosis.” 

Amid the flood of prayers and concern, Metta World Peace has emerged as perhaps the only NBA star to publicly respond to the heartbreaking news about Biden’s health. His reaction isn’t surprising—Metta has long been one of the league’s most politically aware and socially engaged voices.

Metta World Peace has, every now and then, stated his political opinions out loud

Metta World Peace has never hesitated to speak his mind, especially when it comes to political issues that matter to him. Whether it’s calling out inaction or encouraging unity, the former Lakers star has used his voice to spotlight the gaps in leadership.

Take September 2017, for instance. According to TZM, Metta didn’t hold back in criticizing then-President Donald Trump. While Trump chose to zero in on NFL players protesting, Metta pointed to something far more urgent—violence in Chicago. He reminded everyone that Trump had once described the city’s crime as an “epidemic” and even pledged federal help. But when change didn’t follow, Metta demanded accountability, urging the president to follow through.

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And before that, the 2016 election fallout. As emotions ran high, Metta encouraged people not to flee the country in disappointment. Instead, he promoted unity, writing, “Be the change you want!” and rallying others with hashtags like #dontleave and #bethechange.

And then fast forward to 2024, even though Metta didn’t comment directly on Joe Biden, he did express support for Kamala Harris after Biden backed her for the upcoming race—another quiet but clear political nudge from the ex-Laker. Given how politically aware he is, it was no surprise that he is among the first NBA stars to send his prayers Biden’s way.

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