When the Los Angeles Lakers won the NBA title this year, charismatic star Ron Artest memorably thanked his psychiatrist in his post-game comments.

Now HOH hears that Ron-Ron is becoming an advocate for mental health issues by teaming up with a Member of Congress to promote legislation that would provide mental health programs in schools.

The San Gabriel Valley Tribune reports that Artest is scheduled to join Rep. Grace Napolitano at an intermediate school in the California Democrat’s district on Thursday to promote the Mental Health in Schools Act.

Artest, who at one time was considered the NBA’s resident bad boy, thanked his psychiatrist almost immediately after the Lakers beat the Boston Celtics for the NBA championship. “She really helped me relax a lot,” he said.

No word on how the Congresswoman hooked up with the NBA star; Napolitano’s office didn’t immediately return HOH’s call seeking comment.

Overheard on the Hill

“Great seeing everyone at the Walworth County Fair. I wish I could’ve stayed for the Beach Boys.”

— Sen. Russ Feingold in a Sunday tweet. The Wisconsin Democrat campaigned at the fair but left before he got a chance to hear “Good Vibrations.”

Submit your hot tips, juicy gossip or comments here.
Can’t get enough HOH? Get a midday dose of fun and gossip with HOH’s One-Minute Recess, delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up here — because everyone deserves more recess.