The Story of Kermit Washington almost killing Rudy Tomjonovich

By Edcel Panganiban December 11, 2023 22:40

On December 9, 1977, a violent incident occurred during a basketball game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Houston Rockets that would forever change the lives of two players involved. Kermit Washington, a Lakers player, threw a punch at Rudy Tomjanovich, a Rockets player, resulting in severe injuries to Tomjanovich. This incident had a profound impact on both men and led to significant changes in professional sports, particularly in relation to the issue of violence.

The Incident

During the game, a scuffle broke out between several players, and Tomjanovich rushed to the aid of a teammate. Without knowing who was approaching him, Washington threw a punch that connected directly with Tomjanovich's face. The force of the blow was so severe that it caused Tomjanovich to crumple to the floor, leaving him with injuries akin to being thrown from a car going 50 miles per hour. The shocking incident was captured on video, forever etching it into the annals of NBA history.

Consequences

The consequences of Washington's punch were devastating for both players involved. Tomjanovich suffered multiple facial fractures, a broken jaw, and serious damage to his skull and face. He was rushed to the hospital and underwent extensive surgeries to repair the damage. The road to recovery was long and arduous, but Tomjanovich eventually returned to the court and continued his basketball career, albeit with lasting physical and emotional scars.

For Washington, the incident marked a turning point in his life. He deeply regretted his actions and expressed remorse for the harm he caused to Tomjanovich. He was fined and suspended by the NBA, and his reputation was forever tarnished by the incident. The fight between Washington and Tomjanovich led to widespread condemnation from coaches, players, and fans alike.

Impact on Professional Sports

The incident between Washington and Tomjanovich had a profound impact on professional sports, particularly in relation to the issue of violence. Prior to this incident, fighting and physical altercations were not uncommon in basketball and other sports. However, the severity of Tomjanovich's injuries and the public outcry that followed prompted sports organizations, including the NBA, to take immediate action.

In the aftermath of the incident, the NBA implemented stricter rules and penalties regarding fighting and violence on the court. The league cracked down on players who engaged in physical altercations, imposing heavy fines and suspensions. This marked a significant shift in the culture of the sport, emphasizing fair play and sportsmanship.

The incident between Washington and Tomjanovich also brought attention to the need for better player safety measures. It highlighted the potential dangers of on-court violence and the long-term consequences it can have on athletes' health and well-being. As a result, sports organizations began implementing stricter guidelines and protocols to ensure player safety and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

The incident between Kermit Washington and Rudy Tomjanovich was a tragic event that had far-reaching consequences for both men and the world of professional sports. Washington's punch, which almost took Tomjanovich's life, left a lasting impact on both players physically, emotionally, and professionally.

The incident prompted the NBA and other sports organizations to take a strong stance against violence and fighting on the court. Stricter rules, penalties, and player safety measures were implemented to ensure a safer and more sportsmanlike environment for athletes.

While the incident between Washington and Tomjanovich will forever be remembered as a dark moment in NBA history, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of fair play, sportsmanship, and the well-being of athletes in the world of professional sports.