As many people may have noticed by now, there is a guy on the Denver Nuggets that looks like a white version of Dennis Rodman that is kicking butt. Well, that guy is Chris Andersen, who has averaged 9.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.0 blocks against the Mavericks in the first two games of the Western Conference semifinals.

However, Chris Andersen (aka the Birdman) hasn’t always had such a successful life and career as he has recently. His story is an inspiration to anyone in recovery. See, the Birdman grew up in Texas, where by 11 years-old, his father had placed him and his sister in a children’s home. They spent almost 3 ½ years there before there mom was able to regain custody. Nonetheless, when looking back on it, Chris Andersen has always said he made the best of that time.

Later, the Birdman would have to overcome adversity again as he faced a two year suspension after violating the NBA’s “Drug Abuse” policy by testing positive for an illegal substance. As a result, he lost his 13 Million Dollar contract. However, Chris Andersen rose once again from the ashes like a Phoenix, after he spent time in an addiction treatment center and made a successful recovery. Andersen was reinstated in 2008 and immediately made an impact on the Denver Nuggets.