5 Legendary NBA Journeys Cut Short by Injury

The NBA has consistently stood as a symbol of supreme athleticism and power... yet where great heights prevail, so do profound setbacks. From knee tears to arthritis, broken ankles, and more – despite being exceptionally talented, even top athletes can fall victim to inevitable injuries. Such was the case for these NBA legends who were at the pinnacle of their game until they encountered debilitating injuries that left both spectators and fellow competitors pondering about missed opportunities.

(Featured image via .shock /Adobe Stock)

1. Derrick Rose

In 2012, NBA Most Valuable Player Derrick "Pooh" Rose was dominating until he suffered a torn left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). His challenges continued with an injury to his right meniscus in 2013. These incidents marked the start of numerous physical setbacks that plagued him during his professional tenure.

Rose endured a hamstring and lower back injury which culminated in the point guard announcing his retirement in 2024, prompting fans to speculate about what achievements this three-time NBA All-Star might have attained.

2. Grant Hill

NBA player Grant Hill, who starred at Duke, was writing NBA history until an ankle injury in 2000 changed the course of his career. In 2003, he faced another significant challenge when he contracted a MRSA infection following ankle surgery, which put his life at risk.

Even with this obstacle, Hill stayed resilient and continued playing despite multiple additional injuries until he retired in 2013. His contributions to basketball are honored in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.

3. Brandon Roy

Brandon Roy struggled with degenerative knee issues that prevented him from achieving his fullest capabilities. Following his initial knee operation in 2008, his knees progressively began failing him more frequently until he decided to retire in 2011 – at only 27 years of age.

Tormented by "what-ifs," the legendary shooting guard came back to the Minnesota Timberwolves the next season only to face another surgery on his right knee, which ultimately brought his NBA career to an end.

4. Yao Ming

Yao Ming, who once played as the center for the Houston Rockets, is a worldwide celebrity, having been selected as an NBA All-Star eight times. Additionally, he served as the president of the Chinese Basketball Association.

Frequent foot and ankle injuries derailed Yao's career, prompting him to retire at the age of 31.

5. Penny Hardaway

Orlando Magic star Anfernee "Penny" Hardaway was performing exceptionally well until Joe Dumars damaged his knee during the 1996 NBA Playoffs. Despite playing with persistent pain, Hardaway’s knee never fully recovered. He ultimately retired in 2012 due to ongoing injury issues.

His influence is recalled in the Nike "Lil' Penny" ads where Chris Rock lends his voice to a trash-talking puppet of Penny Hardaway.

The post 5 Legendary NBA Careers Cut Short by Injuries appeared first on .co .