No longer worried about his next meal, Williams has begun to look forward, focusing in part on launching a nonprofit foundation that would help others in need, particularly retired professional athletes. He believes the NBA has done too little to help former players in poverty.
“I’m not motivated by anger or revenge,’’ Williams said. “I just believe there’s a better way. Why should guys who are hurting have to wait until they’re on their dying bed before they get the help they need?’’
Conquering hopelessness has restored his self-esteem and fueled his determination.
“I believe this has all happened for a reason, that I’m here to fulfill a purpose,’’ Williams said. “It’s more about the mission than the money, because all the money in the world isn’t going to matter if I don’t follow through on the mission. I’m going to make it work.’’
He’s competing in a new realm now, applying his us-vs.-them credo to the game of life.
“It’s never about the fall, it’s about the getting up,’’ McHale said. “Believe me, Ray’s a fighter. He just needed a little hand. He’ll fight the rest of way himself.’’
Bob Hohler can be reached at hohler@globe.com.