In a recent sit down with Vice Sports, former NBA player Delonte West opened up about how fatherhood has changed him, and how he is ready to get back on the big court.

In the last few years Delonte has faced quite a few challenges, from being diagnosed bipolar, to rumors and defamation, legal issues, and to losing his spot in the NBA. However, being a first-time daddy remains a positive aspect in Delonte’s life. After returning to America from a stint in China where played in the CBA, the athlete says he’s in the best shape of his career, and is “praying” an NBA team gives him a call soon.

He says he’s no longer wanting to be “in the clubs looking for love from fans” because he’s got love at home with his wife and son, who he holds throughout most of the interview. His boy, Cash – named for Cassius Clay – did not receive his father’s name because Delonte wanted to spare him the direct association with the many rumors attached to the name.

“I didn’t want to name him Delonte West Jr. just because of that.” He explained, “I didn’t want my son going to school and people making fun of him for something his daddy did. He goes to school, ‘Oh, didn’t your daddy have sex with LeBron’s mama?'” Of course, the Lebron rumor has been vehemently denied by both parties, and Delonte says he has no idea where it came from.

His bipolar disorder became a major factor in his downfall and depression. He told Vice that it seemed once his disorder was publicized, people were always watching for him to do something crazy – which would clearly be a stressful way to live. Now he just wants to prove that he is a stable family man, and is ready for the big leagues again.