While longtime NBA veteran Tony Snell has enjoyed a successful pro basketball career, suiting up most recently for the Maine Celtics, he recently revealed a key diagnosis in his life. Talking on NBC’s “Today” show late last week, Snell said he was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at the age of 31.

Snell and his wife, Ashley, said they realized their 18-month-old son, Karter, missed some developmental milestones. That’s when their doctor recommended tests for Karter. Tony said his son’s diagnosis “gave me the courage to go get checked out.” The nine-year NBA vet said, growing up, he was independent and alone, which is partly why the diagnosis made sense to him.

“I was not surprised because I always felt different,” Snell said on the show. “I was just relieved, like, ‘This is why I am the way that I am.’ It just made my whole life, everything about my life, makes so much sense. It was like a clarity, like putting some 3D glasses on.”

Snell was drafted 20th overall by the Bulls in the 2013 NBA Draft after playing collegiately at New Mexico. That was the start of his NBA career as he also suited up for the Bucks, Pistons, Hawks, Trail Blazers and Pelicans.

This year, Snell played in 19 games for the Maine Celtics in the G-League after signing midway through the season. He averaged 10.8 points, 5.9 rebounds and 2.2 assists in those games, also shooting 39.2% on 3-pointers. But Snell said his life would’ve been completely different if he was diagnosed earlier in life.

“I think I would’ve been limited with the stuff I could probably do,” Snell said. “I don’t think I would’ve been in the NBA if I was diagnosed with autism. Because back then, what is autism? They probably would’ve put a limit or cap on my abilities.”

According to the “Today” show, Snell will now look to be a role model for his son and others, partnering with the Special Olympics going forward.

“I want to change some lives and inspire people,” Snell said. “I want to make sure my son knows that I have his back. When I was a kid, I felt different. But now, I can show him that I’m right here with him. We’re going to ride this thing together, we’re going to grow together and we’re going to accomplish a lot of things together.”

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