Celtics star says faith has helped him through self-doubt and anxiety
In a candid street interview with The School of Hard Knockz, Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown opened up about his personal journey through self-doubt, anxiety, and depression — shedding light on the often-unseen struggles behind athletic fame.
Though widely admired for his skill on the basketball court, Brown reminded fans that elite athletes are not immune to emotional challenges. When asked if he has ever questioned himself, he answered honestly, “I have. Many of times.”
Brown spoke openly about the pressure to perform, the weight of public expectations, and the internal battles that can arise as a result. “I’ve dealt with anxiety, even depression,” he said. “I’ve been to some very dark places, but I feel like those dark places have allowed my light to shine.”
Rather than hiding his struggles, Brown used the opportunity to encourage others who may be dealing with similar feelings. “I would say it’s OK,” he shared. “Never let anything break your spirit. Everybody’s gonna deal with adversity at some point — even plants struggle to get sunlight.”
Brown emphasized the importance of staying grounded and keeping faith during difficult times. For him, spirituality has been a consistent source of strength. “Anytime I’ve ever been alone, I’ve just always filled that space with the Most High,” he explained. “And He’s always guided me.”
He concluded with a message of perseverance: “Faith, consistency, and hard work pays off.”
Brown’s words offer a powerful reminder that success doesn’t mean the absence of struggle — and that healing, faith, and resilience often lie behind the scenes of greatness. By speaking out, he not only humanized the challenges faced by athletes but also inspired others to embrace their own journeys with courage and hope.
