Over the years, the NBA has seen some of its most recognizable names suffer from knee injuries. Unfortunately, some have had to undergo knee replacement to return to the game they love. Though a severe and often career-ending injury, modern science has given many players a new lease on life.
Bill Walton, former Portland Trailblazer and NBA champion, and Mitch Kupchak, the former Los Angeles Laker and current general manager of the Charlotte Hornets, both underwent successful knee replacement surgeries. Michael D’Andrew D’Antoni, has also undergone a successful knee replacement surgery.
The rest of this article will explore some of the players who have had knee replacements and what impact these surgeries have had on their careers.
1. Bill Walton
A two-time NBA champion, NBA finals MVP, and one of basketball’s most recognizable personalities, Bill Walton had an illustrious playing career before continuing his success as a color commentator for post-game coverage. Despite his success, Walton had a series of injuries throughout his career, and he underwent 37 procedures. This included fusions to both feet, ankles, and spine.
While these procedures worked for a time, his knee injuries didn’t improve, and it was later found he had naturally valgus knees, which can lead to more severe knee injuries. The “Big Red Head,” as he’s known, eventually had to resort to knee replacement surgery in 2013.
Despite this setback, Walton was not deterred and recovered successfully to continue his basketball dreams. He was able to return to his role as an analyst, and he remains part of the basketball community.
2. Mike D’Antoni
Former NBA player and current coach Mike D’Antoni had a long basketball career that spanned over four decades. His career was marred by knee problems that ultimately led him to resort to knee replacement surgery while coaching the Lakers.
D’Antoni has since bounced back and continued to be an influential figure in basketball, most recently taking on a consulting role with the New Orleans Pelicans. He is still able to make an impact on the game, and his longevity speaks volumes of what modern science can do for athletes who are struggling with knee issues.
3. Mitch Kupchak
Three-time NBA champion and former Los Angeles Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak had a successful NBA playing career before becoming a respected executive in the league. While he enjoyed success on the court, he was forced to retire in 1986 due to ongoing knee injuries.
Kupchak eventually underwent a successful knee replacement surgery and has since returned to the basketball world as an executive. His ability to overcome such an injury is a testament to the advancement of modern medicine and shows that, even with serious knee injuries, you can still succeed.
And while there is a lot of secrecy surrounding the subject of knee replacement surgery for current NBA players, it’s clear that many of the greats have gone through successful procedures. These players have proven that, with the proper support and modern medical science, even serious knee injuries don’t have to end careers.