2015 was my best season yet at the University of Michigan when I had career highs in points, rebounds, and assists. But during a December game I injured my left foot, which ultimately ended my season and college career. I took a few months to rest my foot and try physical therapy, but then I decided to visit Dr. Martin O’Malley at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York to get his opinion. I knew Dr. O’Malley had performed surgery on other pro athletes with the same injury.
At that point I was worried about my future because I wanted play in the NBA and I wasn’t sure if this injury would affect my draft prospects. In our meeting, Dr. O’Malley laid out his plan for me, and his demeanor and personality gave me confidence that he and HSS were the right choice.
Dr. O’Malley recommended that I have surgery to repair the fracture in my foot. I was initially nervous because I knew the recovery would impact my ability to participate in the NBA Draft Combine, but Dr. O’Malley and his staff made me comfortable that I would return to the court better than ever.
Weeks after surgery I already felt an improvement in my foot. From surgery through follow-up appointments, Dr. O'Malley and the HSS staff made me feel like I was their number one priority. HSS helped me prepare physically and mentally because I knew I was working with the best doctors and staff, which allowed me to stay positive and motivated to make my way to my NBA debut.
Hearing my name called during the 2016 NBA Draft was one of the proudest moments of my life. And now that I am a Brooklyn Net, I feel even more lucky to have Dr. O’Malley and Dr. Riley Williams treating the team and with us every day. As long as I have HSS in my corner, I know they’ll do everything to keep me healthy and living my dream.
Basketball
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