Julius Randle Quits Marijuana Boosts Mental Health, Family Focus

Julius Randle, the Minnesota Timberwolves star, credits quitting marijuana after his trade from the New York Knicks as a crucial factor in improving his mental health, focus, and presence both on and off the court. He revealed on the "Change Your Brain Every Day" podcast that marijuana made him distant and less present in conversations with loved ones, and that quitting helped him reconnect and stay mentally strong. Randle described how marijuana temporarily suppressed anxiety but ultimately worsened his thoughts, leading him to recognize the damage it was causing to his brain and emotional state. Therapy and lifestyle changes, including quitting weed, contributed to his strong playoff performance and overall improved mindset, earning him the 7th-best power forward ranking by HoopsHype for the 2025-26 NBA season. Despite the NBA no longer testing players for marijuana and many stars openly using it, Randle's personal decision highlighted the importance of a clear mind for peak performance and family happiness. His transformation was also inspired by Kobe Bryant's mentorship, which helped him channel focus during high-pressure moments.