Former NBA center Shawn Bradley paralyzed after car hit him during bike ride

Former Dallas Mavericks player Shawn Bradley was left paralyzed after a bicycle accident in January, his former team announced on Wednesday. The 48-year-old was struck from behind by a car while cycling near his home in St. George, Utah, the Mavericks said.

The accident resulted in a traumatic spinal cord injury and Bradley underwent neck fusion surgery. He spent eight weeks in hospital and in rehab.

The former center – who is 7 feet 6 inches tall – played 14 seasons in the NBA. He had previously not released any details about the crash. According to the Mavericks’ statement, he has no plans to release any further public updates.

“We are saddened to learn of Shawn’s accident,” Mavericks owner Mark Cuban said in a statement. “Shawn has always been incredibly determined and has shown a fighting spirit. We wish him all the best in his recovery. He will always be a part of our Mavs family.”

“We are deeply saddened to learn of Shawn’s injury and our hearts and prayers are with him and his family,” Dallas Mavericks general manager Donnie Nelson said in a statement. “In his eight-plus seasons in Dallas, Shawn has demonstrated all the qualities you look for in someone representing your organization. He has always displayed unwavering courage and determination and we think of him there. tough times. He’s a Maverick for life. “

Doctors have informed Bradley that the road to recovery will be “long and arduous, perhaps an even more difficult physical challenge than playing professional basketball,” according to a statement. “His very strong sense of faith is put to the test, as he participates in grueling physical therapy and learns to cope with the challenges of paraplegia,” the statement read.

Bradley, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, served as a missionary in Australia for two years. He was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers as the number two NBA Draft in 1993. He also played a role in the 1996 film “Space Jam” alongside Michael Jordan.

Bradley retired in 2005 and became a counselor at a private school for at-risk youth in West Jordan, Utah, according to CBS Sports.

“With his wife Carrie by his side 24 hours a day and supported by an incredible team of rehabilitation specialists and his family, Bradley is in good spirits,” the Mavericks’ statement read. “He plans to use his accident as a platform to educate the public about the importance of safe cycling.”