Basketball is a game of speed, power, and precision. But with its high-intensity nature comes the risk of injury. Over the years, the NBA has seen some truly devastating injuries that have not only shocked fans but also altered careers and even league history. Here’s a look at 10 of the worst injuries in NBA history and how they shaped the players’ journeys.
Shaun Livingston’s injury is often described as one of the most gruesome moments in NBA history. While driving to the basket during a game against the Charlotte Bobcats, Livingston landed awkwardly, dislocating his kneecap and tearing his ACL, PCL, MCL, and lateral meniscus. The injury was so severe that doctors considered amputation. Yet, against all odds, Livingston returned to the league and became a key contributor to three Golden State Warriors championship teams. His story is one of resilience and determination.
2. Paul George’s Leg Fracture (2014)
During a Team USA scrimmage, Paul George suffered an open tibia-fibula fracture after colliding with the stanchion while attempting to block a shot. The shocking nature of the injury left fans and teammates stunned. George missed an entire season but made an inspiring comeback, eventually becoming an All-Star again and one of the NBA’s top scorers.
3. Gordon Hayward’s Ankle Break (2017)
Gordon Hayward’s highly anticipated debut with the Boston Celtics turned into a nightmare just minutes into the season opener against Cleveland. Hayward landed awkwardly after an alley-oop attempt, dislocating his ankle and fracturing his tibia. The image of his foot twisted unnaturally silenced everyone in the arena. After months of rehab and setbacks, Hayward returned to the court and continues to play at a high level.
In one of the darkest moments in NBA history, Rudy Tomjanovich was punched by Kermit Washington during an on-court altercation. The punch shattered Tomjanovich’s face and skull, causing life-threatening injuries that required months of recovery. This incident led to stricter rules regarding physical altercations in the league.
5. Derrick Rose’s Torn ACL (2012)
Derrick Rose was at his peak as an MVP-caliber player when disaster struck during Game 1 of the playoffs against Philadelphia. Rose tore his ACL while making a routine jump stop late in the game. This injury marked the beginning of a series of setbacks that derailed what could have been one of the greatest careers in NBA history. Despite this, Rose has reinvented himself as a valuable veteran presence.
6. Andrew Bogut’s Arm Injury (2010)
Andrew Bogut suffered a horrific arm injury while attempting a dunk during his time with the Milwaukee Bucks. He landed awkwardly on his arm, dislocating his elbow and fracturing his hand and wrist simultaneously. Although Bogut returned to play later in his career, he was never quite the same player again.
7. Kevin Durant’s Achilles Rupture (2019)
Kevin Durant tore his Achilles tendon during Game 5 of the 2019 NBA Finals while playing for Golden State. The injury sidelined him for over a year but didn’t stop him from returning as one of the league’s most dominant players with Brooklyn Nets.
8. Kyrie Irving’s Kneecap Fracture (2015)
Kyrie Irving fractured his kneecap during Game 1 of the 2015 NBA Finals against Golden State—an injury that left LeBron James without two key teammates (Irving and Kevin Love). This setback contributed significantly to Cleveland losing that series.
9. Marquis Daniels’ Spinal Cord Bruise (2011)
Marquis Daniels collapsed on the court after colliding with another player during a Boston Celtics game. Diagnosed with a bruised spinal cord, Daniels’ injury was not only rare but also terrifying for fans watching live.
10. Joe Johnson’s Orbital Bone Fracture (2005)
While playing for Phoenix Suns in a playoff game against Dallas Mavericks, Joe Johnson suffered a broken orbital bone after falling face-first onto the court. Despite its severity, Johnson returned later in his career without long-term effects.
Conclusion
These injuries serve as sobering reminders of how physically demanding basketball can be at its highest level. While many players have shown incredible resilience in returning to action, these moments underscore how quickly careers—and lives—can change on the court.
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