Making Space with Hoda Kotb: Kevin Love On His Unfinished Journey With Mental Health
Release Date: July 2, 2025
In this poignant episode of Making Space with Hoda Kotb, host Hoda Kotb engages in a deeply personal and heartfelt conversation with NBA star Kevin Love. The discussion delves into Kevin's tumultuous journey with mental health, his advocacy work, and the profound impact of his family's legacy on his life.
1. Introduction: From Championship Glory to Personal Struggles
Hoda opens the conversation by recounting Kevin Love's illustrious basketball career, highlighting the pinnacle moment in 2016 when the Cleveland Cavaliers secured their first-ever championship. However, the following year marked a significant downturn when Kevin experienced a debilitating panic attack during a timeout in a game, thrusting his private battle with anxiety into the public eye.
Hoda Kotb [01:05]: "In the nearly nine years since, Kevin has bravely become a public advocate for mental health."
This incident not only reshaped Kevin's personal life but also catalyzed his mission to support others facing similar challenges through the Kevin Love Foundation.
2. Early Aspirations and Paternal Influence
Kevin shares insights into his early life, revealing that his first love was baseball, not football—a passion that was discouraged by his father, Stanley Love, a former professional basketball player.
Kevin Love [06:05]: "My dad would take me into the painted area on the basketball floor and say, 'You want to play football? This is your football.'"
Despite his rebellious streak, Kevin acknowledges the profound influence his father had on his athletic and personal development. Stanley Love was not just a coach but also Kevin's first hero, imparting invaluable life lessons both on and off the court.
Kevin Love [07:05]: "He was my protector. Something I wrote about and posted right after he had died on my social platforms and really, truly my first hero."
3. The Public Unveiling of Anxiety
The conversation takes a somber turn as Kevin recounts the events surrounding his public panic attack during an NBA game.
Kevin Love [23:41]: "So, it was a moment where I just let it go. And I think it transcends."
Initially hesitant to seek help, Kevin faced the immense pressure of maintaining his status as a high-achieving athlete. The episode forced him to confront his mental health struggles openly, leading to the establishment of his foundation aimed at destigmatizing mental illness.
Kevin Love [28:52]: "Nothing haunts us like the things we don't say."
4. Building the Kevin Love Foundation
Motivated by personal experiences and the support he received from teammates and peers, Kevin founded the Kevin Love Foundation to bridge the gap between mental and physical health.
Kevin Love [38:57]: "That impact on kids and the next generation... inspires me and gives me a lot of hope."
The foundation focuses on youth education, promoting social-emotional learning, and encouraging vulnerability as a strength—especially among young athletes who often grapple with the pressures of masculinity and performance.
5. Personal Loss and Reconciliation
A significant portion of their dialogue centers on the recent passing of Kevin's father, Stanley Love. Kevin reflects on their complex relationship, moments of estrangement, and ultimate reconciliation before Stanley's death.
Kevin Love [13:38]: "I found that when life is good, it's not easy... but the good times were truly great."
This reconciliation provided Kevin with profound personal growth and a deeper understanding of forgiveness and unconditional love. He emphasizes the lasting impact of his father's teachings and the invaluable time spent together during his father's final days.
Kevin Love [51:17]: "I feel like I'm more settled and understand what's really important in life. And my gratitude has just gone through the roof."
6. Influences on Parenting and Legacy
Drawing from his parents' examples, Kevin discusses how he approaches parenting with his own daughters, striving to instill the same values of unconditional love and emotional openness.
Kevin Love [47:48]: "That's it. That's it."
He underscores the importance of leaving a meaningful legacy—not just through his professional achievements but through the virtues and values he imparts to the next generation.
Kevin Love [48:59]: "What will people say about me? Not only as a basketball player but as a person as well."
7. Impacting Others: Stories of Hope and Healing
Kevin shares touching anecdotes about how his openness has resonated with others, particularly children who see him as a beacon of hope and resilience.
Kevin Love [38:55]: "It's like everybody's going through something... it's a heavy responsibility."
One standout story involves students and young athletes who felt empowered by Kevin's vulnerability, finding solace in knowing that even their heroes face similar struggles.
Kevin Love [39:05]: "Our 2016 team... going through all of that high and low and that beauty among the chaos."
8. Life Beyond the Court: Future Aspirations and Continuing Advocacy
Looking ahead, Kevin envisions a life dedicated to his foundation and continuous advocacy for mental health. He expresses gratitude for the support system around him, including his family and the talented team managing the foundation.
Kevin Love [46:38]: "I'm a giver by nature. I just am. And I like to think that my empathy has grown."
His commitment to making space for growth and supporting others remains unwavering, emphasizing that his journey with mental health is ongoing and evolving.
9. Conclusion: Embracing the Perfect Day
The episode concludes with Kevin describing his idea of a perfect day—spending quality time with his daughters, maintaining his health, and enjoying the simple pleasures of family life.
Kevin Love [57:24]: "It's the perfect day."
This reflection encapsulates Kevin's journey towards balance, self-care, and the unwavering love that guides his path forward.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Kevin Love [06:05]: "You want to play football? This is your football."
- Kevin Love [07:05]: "He was my protector."
- Kevin Love [28:52]: "Nothing haunts us like the things we don't say."
- Kevin Love [38:57]: "That impact on kids and the next generation... inspires me and gives me a lot of hope."
- Kevin Love [51:17]: "I feel like I'm more settled and understand what's really important in life. And my gratitude has just gone through the roof."
- Kevin Love [48:59]: "What will people say about me? Not only as a basketball player but as a person as well."
- Kevin Love [57:24]: "It's the perfect day."
Final Thoughts
Kevin Love's candid discussion on Making Space with Hoda Kotb offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of a celebrated athlete navigating mental health challenges. His journey highlights the importance of vulnerability, the power of reconciliation, and the impact of using one's platform to foster positive change. Through his foundation and ongoing advocacy, Kevin continues to inspire and support countless individuals, embodying the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
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