FILE – Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kyle Singler is pictured during an NBA basketball media day in Oklahoma City, Monday, Sept. 25, 2017. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
Former Duke star and NBA player Kyle Singler’s cryptic Instagram post saying he fears for his life has drawn an outpouring of concern and support from former teammates and others.
Singler, 36, spoke slowly and was shirtless in the short video, which was posted Tuesday morning.
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“I have been mistreated and abused, neglected, made into a mental example,” Singler said. “And I fear for my life every day. And people in my community make me look out as if I’m going to be someone that’s going to be a problem and make things difficult for people when I’m only trying to be helpful.
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“I feel like I have a certain way about myself and strength and purpose that does not get valued or get treated properly.”
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The video cut off abruptly after about 90 seconds. It was shared more than 1,200 times in the 12 hours after it was posted.
The National Basketball Players Association said it has connected with the former Thunder player.
FILE–Oklahoma City Thunder Kyle Singler (L) vies the ball with the Brooklyn Nets Spencer Dinwiddie (R) during an NBA Global Games match at the Mexico City Arena, on December 7, 2017, in Mexico City. (Photo by ALFREDO ESTRELLA / AFP)
“We are in contact with Kyle’s family,” Sarah Houseknecht, a spokeswoman for the NBPA, said in an e-mail to The Associated Press on Wednesday morning. “As with all current and former members of the NBPA, we offer any and all support to players, whether through their biggest successes or times of challenge.”
Several NBA players responded. Kevin Love wrote, “I love you Kyle. Hit me whenever. Please.” Isaiah Thomas said: “Here for you bro! Always and forever.” Andre Drummond added, “You aren’t alone brother! I’m here for you.”
Many of those who responded included Duke men’s basketball and the NBA in their comments, hoping to get their attention.
Singler was on Duke’s 2010 national championship team and was named Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA Tournament.
He posted another video on Tuesday afternoon. He was more stable while repeating grievances from the first post.
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Singler was the 33rd overall pick in the 2011 draft and started his career overseas before playing in the NBA. He played three seasons for the Detroit Pistons, who drafted him, and was on the All-Rookie second team in 2013. He played parts of four seasons for the Oklahoma City Thunder.