The top 10 Worst Injuries in NBA History

By Edcel Panganiban December 29, 2023 05:00

Professional sports, especially basketball, can be brutal and physically demanding. The NBA has seen its fair share of injuries throughout its history, some of which have been truly gruesome and devastating. In this article, we will take a look at the top 10 worst injuries in NBA history, highlighting the severity and impact they had on both the players and the league as a whole.

1. Shaun Livingston's Knee Dislocation (2007)

During a game in 2007, Shaun Livingston, then playing for the Los Angeles Clippers, suffered a horrific knee dislocation. The injury was so severe that it left him with multiple torn ligaments and a dislocated knee cap. Many thought his career was over, but Livingston made an incredible comeback and continued to play in the NBA for several more years.

2. Gordon Hayward's Ankle Fracture (2017)

In one of the most shocking injuries in recent memory, Gordon Hayward, then playing for the Boston Celtics, suffered a gruesome ankle fracture just minutes into the 2017-2018 season. The injury occurred during a collision with another player, and the sight of Hayward's ankle bending in an unnatural direction was difficult to watch. It took him a year to fully recover and return to the court.

3. Paul George's Leg Fracture (2014)

During a Team USA scrimmage in 2014, Paul George, then playing for the Indiana Pacers, suffered a compound fracture of his right leg. The injury occurred when he landed awkwardly after attempting to block a shot. The impact was so severe that his leg snapped in half, leaving fans and players in shock. George made a remarkable recovery and continues to be one of the top players in the league.

4. Derrick Rose's ACL Tear (2012)

Derrick Rose, the former MVP and star player for the Chicago Bulls, suffered a devastating ACL tear during the 2012 playoffs. The injury occurred during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers when Rose attempted to jump and change direction. The ACL tear not only sidelined him for the rest of the playoffs but also had a significant impact on his career, as he struggled with subsequent injuries.

5. Kevin Ware's Leg Fracture (2013)

In one of the most horrifying injuries in NCAA history, Kevin Ware, then playing for the Louisville Cardinals, suffered a compound fracture of his right leg during the 2013 NCAA Tournament. The injury occurred when he landed awkwardly after attempting to block a shot. The sight of Ware's bone protruding from his leg left spectators and players in shock.

6. Andrew Bogut's Elbow Dislocation (2010)

Andrew Bogut, then playing for the Milwaukee Bucks, suffered a gruesome elbow dislocation during a game in 2010. The injury occurred when he landed awkwardly after attempting a dunk. The impact was so severe that his elbow dislocated, and he had to undergo surgery to repair the damage. Bogut has since returned to the NBA but has struggled with various injuries throughout his career.

7. Larry Bird's Back Injury (1988)

Larry Bird, one of the greatest basketball players of all time, suffered a debilitating back injury during the 1988 season. The injury occurred when he landed awkwardly after a hard foul. Bird's back injury significantly impacted his ability to play at the same level and ultimately contributed to his retirement a few years later.

8. Yao Ming's Foot Fracture (2008)

Yao Ming, the dominant center for the Houston Rockets, suffered a stress fracture in his left foot during the 2008 season. The injury required surgery and kept Yao out of action for an extended period. Despite multiple attempts to return to the court, Yao was eventually forced to retire due to recurring foot injuries.

9. Amar'e Stoudemire's Knee Microfracture Surgery (2005)

Amar'e Stoudemire, then playing for the Phoenix Suns, underwent knee microfracture surgery in 2005. The surgery was necessary to repair damaged cartilage in his knee and required a long and difficult recovery process. While Stoudemire was able to return to the court, his explosiveness and athleticism were never the same.

10. Grant Hill's Ankle Injury (2000)

Grant Hill, one of the most promising young players in the NBA, suffered a severe ankle injury during the 2000 season. The injury required multiple surgeries and forced Hill to miss significant playing time. Although he was able to continue his career, the injury had a lasting impact on his performance and limited his potential.

Injuries are an unfortunate part of any sport, and the NBA is no exception. The top 10 worst injuries in NBA history, as discussed in this article, serve as a reminder of the physical toll that professional basketball can take on its players. Despite the devastating nature of these injuries, many players have shown incredible resilience and determination in their recoveries, inspiring fans and fellow athletes alike.