The injury to Louisville sophomore guard Kevin Ware was one of the more gruesome ones that our generation has seen.
It was reminiscent of a past NBA injury.
Back in 2007, former Los Angeles Clipper guard Shaun Livingston dislocated his left kneecap after he landed awkwardly coming down from a fastbreak layup.
The Clippers picked Livingston fourth overall in the 2004 NBA Draft. His above-average height for a point guard and smooth passing skills reminded many of past Los Angeles great Magic Johnson.
Livingston’s breakout season begun in the 2006, and he averaged nine points and five assists in less than 30 minutes of play per game.
Then in late February, the 22-year-old guard injured almost every part of his knee. After the possibility of needing amputation, and months of rehabilitation to return to walking, it’s quite remarkable how he has returned to the NBA.
Now a Cavalier, injuries to Cleveland’s starting guards have allowed Livingston see about 30 minutes per game once again.
He’s averaged 11 points per game and four assists in his past 10 games.
It will be interesting to see whether Ware will be able to return to the game like Livingston.
Reacher the reporter at gdemano@asu.edu
