Kofi Inkoom
Chet Holmgren, big man for the Oklahoma City Thunder, has elaborated on the challenging moments he faced during his journey to recovery from a Lisfranc injury.
Anticipation ran high among both the Oklahoma City Thunder and their devoted fans as they eagerly awaited the debut of Chet Holmgren for the 2022-23 season.
Unfortunately, their excitement was dashed when he sustained a season-ending injury while attempting to block LeBron James during a Pro-Am game in Seattle.
Fortunately, the towering athlete is now prepared to rejoin the action in the 2023-24 season, adding an exciting dimension to an already skilled Thunder roster, spearheaded by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
As the upcoming season approaches, Holmgren candidly shared the formidable challenges he encountered during his path to recovery.
Via NBA.com:
“When I was really in the thick of it, waking up from surgery and stuff, I just tried to keep an understanding that this is one of the bumps in the road you have to go over,” he said. “Obviously you don’t want it to be there, but there’s no going around it. Nobody else could factor in my effort, so I just tried to lead with as much effort as possible and find every possible way to come back and be better from it.
“One way or another, I saw myself getting to this point,” he says. “Some of the toughest days and some of the hardest parts of the rehab process, I just understood if I keep waking up each morning doing what I need to do, this point will come. It’s just going to be a matter of time. Looking back, it went so quick, but looking forward, it seemed so far away.”
Chet Holmgren underwent a Lifransc surgery, which is essentially a foot procedure. There was already substantial criticism revolving around Holmgren, with assertions that his slim and lightweight frame might hinder his success and ability to compete against the robust bodies in the NBA. This setback only fueled the ongoing discussions.
MORE : How to watch the OKC Thunder in the upcoming Season, full streaming guide.
Nevertheless, he isn’t the first budding star to miss his inaugural NBA season due to injury.
Ben Simmons sat out his rookie year due to health issues (though he’s no longer considered a star), and Blake Griffin also faced a knee injury that sidelined him during his rookie campaign.
In the upcoming season, Holmgren has the opportunity to silence all the skeptics, and he’s surrounded by a group of talented teammates who are determined to assist him in achieving success.
Perhaps, Chet Holmgren could even emerge as a strong contender for the Rookie of the Year title.