Lamar Odom is 'defying the odds' and showing signs of recovery, family says

LAS VEGAS (WABC) -- Former NBA star and Queens native Lamar Odom is "defying the odds" and showing more signs of recovery, after being found unconscious at a Nevada brothel last week.

In a statement from Odom's aunt, JaNean Mercer said Odom is making progress while being treated in a Las Vegas hospital.

"Each day Lamar is getting stronger and reaching significant milestones in his recovery," Mercer said. "We are committed to remaining by his side as a family for our champion, who we love immensely."

On Friday, sources told Eyewitness News that Odom said 'good morning' and was able to give a thumbs up.

"Lamar has always been blessed with a tenacious, fighting spirit, overcoming insurmountable obstacles to achieve the impossible," Mercer said. "These past few days have been no different. He is defying the odds in his toughest battle to date with God's grace."

Sources said there are plans to move Odom to a hospital in Los Angeles, possibly as early as Monday, if he's physically able.

Odom is eating solid foods, according to the sources. No one is quite sure the extent of damage or what kind of recovery is ahead of him, but the family is discussing rehabilitation option.

The sources said Khloe Kardashian - his estranged wife - has hired bodyguards and is only allowing her and his children.

Odom was found unconscious and face down at the Love Ranch, a brothel in Crystal, Nevada, last Tuesday afternoon.