Former Dallas Mavericks center Shawn Bradley is now paralyzed after a bike accident in January, the team shared on Wednesday.
Bradley was riding his bike near his home in Saint George, Utah, when a car hit him from behind.
"The accident caused a traumatic spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed," the Mavericks said in a statement.
The former pro player has spent the last eight weeks in the hospital after undergoing spinal fusion surgery.
Bradley is best known as one of the tallest NBA players ever. At 7 feet, 6 inches tall, Bradley was drafted #2 overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 1993. He was traded from Philadelphia to the New Jersey Nets before he found himself with the Mavericks in 1997. He stayed with Dallas until his retirement in 2005.
“We are deeply saddened to hear of Shawn’s injury and our thoughts and prayers go out to him and his family. In his eight-plus seasons in Dallas, Shawn demonstrated all of the qualities you want in a person representing your organization. He has always exhibited unwavering grit and determination and we are thinking of him at this difficult time. He is a Maverick for life," Mavs General Manager Donnie Nelson said.
Other highlights from Bradley's career include playing for the German national basketball team and appearing alongside Michael Jordan in the movie Space Jam.
The Mavs said Bradley is in good spirits with his wife Carrie by his side and that he appreciates the support from fans.
"Their support has energized his recovery and bolstered his confidence that he will manage the long process ahead successfully. He does not plan to issue further public updates, preferring to devote his full concentration on his rehabilitation."
Photo: Getty Images