-
Sara Barshop
multiple authors
Los Angeles–a day later UCLA Center Lauren Bates Opened up about his struggle with depression in a Story for Players’ TribuneHead coach Corey Close said she could not be “more impressed and inspired” by Bates’ “courageous vulnerability”.
In the story published Thursday, Bates wrote about the challenges he has faced with his mental health, including missing games during his sophomore season in January 2024. During that time, he said he checked himself into UCLA Hospital to get help.
At a news conference Friday, Bates said she wanted to write the story because “it was a good opportunity for me to show the growth I’ve had over the years.”
When Close was asked about her reaction to seeing Bates’ story, she said, “I can’t imagine, when I was that age, having that kind of courage.”
Close said, “And experiencing some of the things with him and with him, even being there and watching him answer the question of why he did what he did, I think it shows his growth.” “…It’s incredible to see how she’s grown and miraculously recovered. And I couldn’t be more proud.”
In the story, Bates said that when she returned to her team in 2024, she addressed her teammates and told them why she missed that time.
“My mom and Corey encouraged me to address what happened and speak from my heart,” Bates said in the story. “So before practice started, in the film room, I talked to everybody. I said, ‘I just want you all to know… I’m struggling with depression. That’s what’s going through my mind. And yes… I love you guys so much. And I’m sorry I have to leave.’ Then I prepared myself for their reactions.
“And of course, there was nothing to worry about. They were all like, ‘We’re so happy you took care of yourself. You’re coming back even better. We love you.'”
On Friday, Bates said she has “recovered a lot” since her sophomore year.
Bates said, “And I think that was really special for me to write it from my perspective.” “… I think it was just an amazing opportunity for me to showcase what I stand for and why I play basketball and why … I think for me, it’s so much bigger than me. So I think the people I’ve been able to impact really mean a lot to me and that’s why I wanted to do this.”
Earlier in the week, Bates was named a First Team All-American. This season he was also named Big Ten Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year.
Bates and 1-seed UCLA open the NCAA Tournament at home against No. 16 seed California Baptist on Saturday night at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN.
