About this episodeKevin Durant, Kelsey Plum, and Katie Lou Samuelson discuss their experiences rupturing Achilles tendons, detai…AI summary
Kevin Durant, Kelsey Plum, and Katie Lou Samuelson discuss their experiences rupturing Achilles tendons, detailing the physical rehabilitation process, the psychological challenges of isolation, and the importance of patience in recovery. The conversation highlights how the injury forced a shift in perspective, leading to a deeper appreciation for the game and a more professional approach to body maintenance and mental health.
Key takeaways 5
Rehabilitation requires strict patience; rushing back (e.g., reducing crutch use too quickly) can cause swelling and setbacks, as experienced by both Durant and Plum.
The 'worst part' of Achilles recovery is often the loss of basic mobility and independence, such as the inability to drive or perform daily hygiene tasks without assistance.
Players are adopting a more professional approach to body maintenance post-injury, incorporating pre- and post-workout routines like massage and stretching that were previously neglected.
The NBA/WNBA 'bubble' environment is described as mentally taxing due to isolation and repetitive routines ('Groundhog Day'), but provides a safe space to compete.
Injury recovery can provide valuable perspective, allowing athletes to step back from constant pressure and appreciate family time and the simple ability to play.
Notable quotes 5AI-generated: wording and quote attribution may be wrong. Use the play link to verify.
“I put so much time and effort into the game and maybe this is meant for me to slow down and relax... we go hard every single day... so sometimes we may go too hard.”
▶ 7:06Kevin Durant reflecting on why the injury happened and using it as a lesson to listen to his body.
“I learned that like I have the smallest bladder ever... I almost peed myself a couple times... there's no like being graceful you know when you can't step on your other leg.”
▶ 4:29Kevin Durant describing the humiliating and difficult daily life adjustments during the early weeks of his Achilles recovery.
“If my calf doesn't [feel good] then I'm out like that's it like I can't push it... listening to my body.”
▶ 11:26Kelsey Plum explaining her cautious approach to returning to play in the bubble, prioritizing long-term health over short-term performance.
“I think for the three of us like we're making a hard thing look easy... rupturing your achilles coming back and playing a sport at the highest level possible is not easy.”
▶ 38:29Katie Lou Samuelson acknowledging the immense mental toughness required for their recovery journey.
“I wouldn't have put like a ton of pressure on myself... just really listening to my body... just continuing to be patient.”
▶ 39:08Kelsey Plum's advice to her past self regarding the recovery timeline and managing expectations.
Chapters & Sections (31)▼
0:00NBA and WNBA Bubble Protocols and Safety Measureschapter3
0:00NBA and WNBA Bubble Protocols and Player Experiences
2:11Making a Music Video During Quarantine
3:36Recovering from a Serious Injury
5:07Achilles Tendon Ruptures in Athleteschapter4
5:07Achilles Tendon Ruptures in Athletes
7:18Overcoming Career-Ending Injuries and Mental Burnout
8:53Managing Injuries and Body Recovery
10:59Managing Injury Rehabilitation and Patience
13:29Managing Injury Recovery and Rehabilitationchapter4
13:29Managing Injury Recovery and Rehabilitation
15:06Rehabilitation Progress and Physical Therapy Updates
16:30Overcoming Injuries and Preparing for Games
18:04Scar Healing and Recovery Experiences
19:17Recovering from an Achilles Rupture Injurychapter2
19:17Recovery from Achilles Rupture and Muscle Atrophy
20:51Overcoming Injury and Finding New Appreciation for Basketball
23:30Finding Perspective in Challenging Life Circumstanceschapter3
23:30Finding Perspective in Challenging Life Circumstances
25:15Adjusting to Being a Sideline Observer
26:48Maintaining Team Relationships and Overcoming Injury
28:14Returning to Team Dynamics and Normalcychapter2
28:14Returning to Team Dynamics and Normalcy
29:59Life in the NBA Bubble Experience
32:13COVID-19 Protocols in Professional Sports Leagueschapter2
32:13Impact of COVID-19 on International Sports Leagues
33:50NBA Bubble Life and Future of Sports
36:36Recovery and Return to Competitive Sportschapter3
36:36Recovery and Return to Competitive Sports
39:01Managing Expectations and Body Recovery
40:34Overcoming Injury and Mental Health Challenges
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