WORCESTER, Mass. - Former NBA star Chris Herren visited high school students in Worcester on Friday to talk about his recovery. 

Herren spoke to hundreds of students at Doherty and South high schools, telling them the story of how he started drinking at 13.

Herren played basketball at Boston college, but was kicked off the team and expelled after failing a drug test. He transferred to Fresno State before eventually making it to the NBA and playing for the Boston Celtics.

But Herren struggled with substance use for most of his career.  In June 2008, he overdosed on heroin and crashed his car. 

He’s been alcohol and drug-free since August 1,2008.

In 2011, Herren founded the nonprofit Herren Project, a national organization providing free resources and support for the treatment, recovery and prevention of substance use disorder. 

“Over the last 10 years, I’ve realized it’s not my story, it’s yours. This is a chance for you to look at the kid you’re becoming. Take a look at some of the things you’re doing,” Herren said to students at Doherty. “Ask yourself if you’re giving yourself enough. If you truly believe you’re worth it still.”

Herren will be back in Worcester on June 1 to speak to students at Forest Grove middle school. 

The Worcester County District Attorney’s Office is sponsoring the three events.