Former Dallas Mavericks centerman Shawn Bradley is paralyzed after being hit by a vehicle while cycling near his Utah home in January, the retired player said on Wednesday.
“The accident caused a traumatic spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed. After undergoing neck fusion surgery, Bradley spent the last eight weeks in hospital and in rehabilitation,” according to a statement distributed by his former team.
Bradley, 48, was shot in the back in the January 20 accident, which happened a block from his home in St. George, the statement said.
Bradley was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 1993 and spent time with that team, as well as the then New Jersey Nets, but spent most of his career with Dallas. He played there for eight seasons and retired in 2005.
Mavericks owner Mark Cuban and general manager Donnie Nelson said they were saddened by the accident and wished Bradley nothing but the best.
THE 76ers and the nowBrooklyn Nets he also expressed his support and best wishes for Bradley and his loved ones.
Bradley is in a good mood, with his wife Carrie “by his side at all times and supported by an incredible team of rehabilitation experts and family members,” the statement said.
Bradley said he plans to use the accident to raise public awareness of bicycle safety.
The statement released on behalf of Bradley does not mention details of the accident. A St. George police public information officer said he sent his report to the city attorney’s office for a review of the charges.
There were no independent witnesses and the minivan driver has an account, but the cyclist couldn’t remember what happened, police officer Tiffany Atkin said in an email.
Bradley is a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the statement says. He was a missionary for two years before his NBA career.
“His strong sense of faith is being tested as he participates in strenuous physical therapy and learns how to deal with the challenges of paraplegia,” says the statement. “Doctors have warned him that his road to recovery will be long and arduous, perhaps an even more difficult physical challenge than playing professional basketball.”
“Bradley asked to convey his deep gratitude for expressing good wishes and prayers he received from family, friends and fans,” the statement said. “Their support energized their recovery and reinforced their confidence that they will successfully manage the long process ahead.”
Cuban said in a statement that “Shawn has always been incredibly determined and has shown a fighting spirit”.
