BA LL TA LK
WORST IN NBA
KEVIN WARE & AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT THE MOST DEVASTATING
On March 31, 2013, Kevin Ware experienced one of the most shocking injuries in college basketball history during an Elite Eight NCAA Tournament game against Duke Blue Devils. While attempting to block a three-point shot, Ware leaped into the air with perfect timing, but upon landing, his right leg struck the floor at an awkward angle. The force of the impact caused a severe compound (open) fracture of his right tibia, with the bone visibly protruding through the skin. The gruesome nature of the injury stunned players, coaches, and fans alike, bringing the game to an emotional halt. Ware was immediately taken off the court and transported to a hospital, where he underwent a twohour surgery. Doctors inserted a metal rod into his leg to stabilize the bone and begin the healing process. Despite the severity of the injury, Ware showed incredible resilience and determination, eventually recovering and continuing his basketball career at the professional level.
INJURIES HISTORY
DEVASTATING PHYSICAL SETBACKS IN LEAGUE HISTORY
Gorden Hayward
A similarly devastating injury occurred on October 17, 2017, during an NBA season opener involving Boston Celtics forward Gordon Hayward. In a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Hayward attempted to catch an alley-oop pass early in the first quarter. As he leaped toward the basket, he collided mid-air with LeBron James and another defender, losing balance before crashing to the court. Upon landing, Hayward suffered a horrific injury—a fractured left tibia combined with a dislocated ankle. The impact caused his leg to bend unnaturally, immediately signaling the seriousness of the situation. Medical staff rushed onto the court, and Hayward was stretchered off and taken to the hospital for emergency treatment. Both incidents highlight the physical risks athletes face in high-intensity sports like basketball.
RAPTORS STARTING
“WE
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he Toronto Raptors showcased a balanced and evolving starting under head coach Darko Rajaković. Hired in June 2023 as experience from assistant roles with the Memphis Grizzlies, emphasizes ball movement, versatility, and strong defensive play. Leading was drafted in 2020 and traded to Toronto from the New York Knicks improving playmaking, Quickley sets the pace offensively. Alongside Ontario. Drafted in 2019, Barrett returned to Canada in 2023 and team is Scottie Barnes (No. 4), drafted in 2021. Barnes continues to his size, defense, and playmaking ability. Adding offensive firepower ary 2025 from the New Orleans Pelicans. Ingram’s scoring versatility Rookie Collin Murray-Boyles (No. 12), drafted in 2025, rounds out he brings energy and physicality to the frontcourt. Overall, this lineup versatility, positioning them as a competitive and developing team
STARTING LINE UP
VIA Game
February 25, 2026
NORTH”
starting lineup in their February 25, 2026 game, reflecting a new era as the 10th coach in franchise history, Rajaković brought valuable Grizzlies, Phoenix Suns, and Oklahoma City Thunder. His coaching style Leading the lineup at guard is Immanuel Quickley (No. 5), who Knicks in December 2023. Known for his quick scoring ability and Alongside him is RJ Barrett (No. 9), a forward/guard from Mississauga, and provides scoring, strength, and local pride. At the core of the to be the franchise’s centerpiece, contributing across all areas with firepower is Brandon Ingram (No. 3), who joined the Raptors in Februversatility and length make him a key weapon in half-court situations. out the lineup. Known for his defensive intensity and rebounding, lineup highlights the Raptors’ mix of young talent, experience, and team in the NBA.
CANADIAN NBA
WRITTEN BY JASMINE XU
RJ Barrett was born in Toronto and raised in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. While he spent part of his childhood in France while his father played professional basketball, his family moved back to Canada in 2008 and he attended school in Mississauga and Brampton. RJ Barrett now plays for the Toronto Raptors.
Shai Gilgeous - Alexander Toronto, he moved to Hamilton, where he spent his formative tended St. Thomas More School and Sir Allan MacNab School, and developed skills before moving to years of high school. Shai Alexander is currently City.
RJ Barrett Shai Gilgeous
Alexander
NBA PLAYERS
Alexander was born in Hamilton, Ontario, formative years, he atMore Catholic Secondary MacNab Secondary developed his elite basketball to the U.S. for his final Shai Gilgeousplaying for Oklahoma
Jamal Murray was born and raised in Kitchener, Ontario. He attended Grand River Collegiate Institute in Kitchener and later played at Orangeville Prep in Mono, Ontario. His father trained him rigorously in Kitchener, incorporating basketball drills, Kung Fu, and meditation into his routine from a young age. He is now a player for the Denver Nuggets.
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