Lamar Odom Attends First NBA Game Since Hospitalization, Receives Warm Welcome At Lakers-Heat

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Lamar Odom was all smiles at Wednesday night's game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat, his first appearance at an NBA game since his hospitalization in October.

The 36-year-old athlete was welcomed with open arms at the Staples Center in Downtown L.A. ESPN reports that Odom was invited to attend the game by longtime friend and former teammate Kobe Bryant.

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WATCH: Kobe Bryant on Lamar Odom's 'Amazing' Progress: 'It Truly Is Remarkable'

Odom received a lot of love from friendly faces during the game, including Los Angeles Times sportswriter Bill Plaschke, who tweeted, "Just greeted Lamar Odom at Laker game, he recognized me immediately, said my name, shook my hand, thrilling to see him coming back."

Plaschke also shared an update on Odom's apparent health, writing, "Lamar Odom walking slow but looking strong, speaking well, giant ray of hope."

WATCH: Lamar Odom Spotted 'Looking Healthy' and in Good Spirits on Grocery Store Run

Odom was also greeted with a hug by Lakers President and co-owner Jeanie Buss, daughter of the late Jerry Buss. L.A. Daily News sportswriter Mark Medina shared a snapshot of the sweet moment to Twitter.

Odom, who played for the Lakers for seven years between 2004 and 2011, won two titles and was named the 2011 Sixth Man of the Year with the team.

WATCH: Lamar Odom Celebrates Easter with Khloe Kardashian and Family

The former NBA star is currently in a substance abuse recovery program after his hospitalization last year, but was spotted hanging out at a bar in Sherman Oaks, California on Saturday.

It was rumored that Odom's presence at the bar caused tension with his ex, Khloe Kardashian, who has been supporting him during his recovery. However, Odom appeared to be all smiles while spending Easter with his ex and her family the next day. Check out the video below to see more from the Kardashians family's fun Easter festivities.

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