Shawn Bradley’s Journey: From NBA Star to Paralysis and Hope

Shawn Bradley, a former NBA player known for his towering height of 7 feet 6 inches, faced a life-changing event in 2021 when he was struck by a car while riding his bicycle in St. George, Utah. The collision resulted in significant spinal injuries, leaving him paralyzed from the chest down. This tragic accident has reshaped his life, but Bradley remains resilient, drawing strength from his faith and family as he navigates his new reality.

Bradley, who was drafted second overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1993 NBA Draft, enjoyed a successful 12-year career in the league. He played for teams like the New Jersey Nets and Dallas Mavericks before retiring in 2005, having earned nearly $70 million during his time in the NBA. His most notable off-court appearance was in the 1996 film Space Jam, alongside basketball legend Michael Jordan.

Following his retirement from professional basketball, Bradley pursued various ventures, including operating a heavy machinery rental company named Mammoth Machinery & Supply. He also bought a cattle ranch, staying connected to his roots in Utah where he grew up working on a ranch. Bradley has six children with his ex-wife, Annette Evertson, and married his current partner, Carrie Cannon, in 2018.

The bike accident in 2021 marked a dark chapter in Bradley’s life. After being hospitalized for eight weeks, he faced immense challenges due to his 350-pound frame, which complicated his recovery process. In a candid interview on The Tamron Hall Show, he shared the emotional weight of that moment, expressing fears about his future and a desperate need to communicate with his wife.

Bradley reflected on the accident, saying, “I didn’t know if that was going to be my last moment, to be honest. I just wanted to make sure I had some communication with her if those were my last moments.” His journey has been filled with obstacles, but he emphasizes the importance of finding positivity amid adversity.

“You can find triumph in tragedy,” he stated. “It’s important to realize that even though you go through hard things in life, you can be positive through them.” His perspective on life has shifted, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and resilience.

In 2022, Bradley announced plans to design a home in Texas that would accommodate his new lifestyle, emphasizing the need for accessibility. Cannon highlighted the broader impact of the accident, stating, “It’s not just the person that’s involved in the accident. It’s a domino effect. Our family has been forever changed.”

Despite the profound changes his family has endured, Bradley continues to fight for a semblance of normalcy. He openly discusses the mental health struggles that accompany his condition, admitting, “I don’t know how I can ease the burden of me. Maybe it’d be better if this was just all over.” While he acknowledges these dark thoughts, he remains committed to his family and his recovery.

In a 2023 interview with KSL, Bradley shared insights into his ongoing struggle and the small victories he experiences as he regains some function in his hands. The segment, titled “Shawn Bradley: Strangely Grateful,” highlighted his determination to lead as normal a life as possible.

As Bradley continues to adapt to his new circumstances, his story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience in the face of adversity. He exemplifies how faith, family, and a positive mindset can guide individuals through even the most challenging times.