Lakers Coach Jack Mckinney Bicycle Accident
Introduction
Jack McKinney was a basketball coach who is known for his success with the Los Angeles Lakers in the early 1980s. However, his career was cut short due to a tragic bicycle accident that left him with severe injuries. In this article, we will discuss the details of the accident and its impact on McKinney's life and career.
The Accident
On October 28, 1979, Jack McKinney was riding his bicycle near his home in Palos Verdes, California. He was not wearing a helmet and was hit by a car, causing him to suffer a traumatic brain injury. McKinney was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery to remove a blood clot in his brain.
The Recovery
After the surgery, McKinney was in a coma for several weeks. When he finally woke up, he had lost the ability to speak and had limited movement in his right arm and leg. He spent the next few months in rehabilitation, working hard to regain his speech and mobility.
Despite the severity of his injuries, McKinney remained optimistic and determined to return to coaching. He was eventually able to regain his speech and movement, but he still suffered from memory loss and other cognitive issues.
The Impact on His Career
Before the accident, McKinney was a rising star in the basketball world. He had been an assistant coach with the Lakers for several years and was promoted to head coach for the 1979-80 season. The team had high hopes for the season, but the accident changed everything.
After McKinney's injury, the Lakers struggled to find their footing. The team finished the season with a record of 54-28, but they were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. McKinney was never able to return to coaching at the same level, and he eventually retired from the sport altogether.
The Legacy
Despite the tragic end to his coaching career, Jack McKinney is remembered as a beloved figure in the basketball world. His positive attitude and determination in the face of adversity inspired many, and his impact on the Lakers organization will never be forgotten.
McKinney's accident also brought attention to the importance of wearing helmets while riding bicycles. In the years since his injury, there has been a greater emphasis on bicycle safety, and many states have passed laws requiring helmets for all riders.
Conclusion
The bicycle accident that ended Jack McKinney's coaching career was a tragedy that had a profound impact on his life and the basketball world. Despite the challenges he faced, McKinney remained optimistic and determined to overcome his injuries. His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and the need for greater safety measures in all aspects of life.