Former NBA all-star Kenny Anderson, now head coach of the Fisk University basketball program in Nashville, Tennessee, suffered a stroke last week and is now recuperating and undergoing rehabilitation.
Anderson, 48, from Queens, New York, recognized during his teen years as an athletic prodigy, was hospitalized Saturday evening, Feb. 23, due to health concerns. He remained in intensive care until he was released the following Monday.
Anderson’s wife, Natasha, released a statement regarding his status.
“We would like to thank everyone for reaching out on behalf of Kenny,” she said in a prepared statement. “Our family is extremely grateful for all the prayers and love that we have received over the last few days. We appreciate you continuing to respect our privacy as Kenny heals.”
A stroke is described by the Mayo Clinic as an episode when the blood supply that goes to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain tissue of the oxygen and nutrients that it needs. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. It’s a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment. Early attention can minimize brain damage and potential complications.
Actor Luke Perry, 52, a teen idol, died Monday morning, March 4, after suffering a massive stroke just five days before.
There are several signs and symptoms of a stroke. They include trouble with speaking and understanding. The patient may experience confusion. They may slur their words or become disoriented and have difficulties understanding.
A sudden, severe headache may be accompanied by vomiting, dizziness and difficulties with walking.
Paralysis or numbness of the face, arm or leg may also take place. This often happens on just one side of the body. Your mouth may droop when you try to smile. Your vision may be affected, blurry or blackened in one or both eyes. You may see double.
It’s been reported that Anderson suffers from high cholesterol and high blood pressure, but was not taking any medication for his condition.
Born and raised in Queens, New York, Anderson attended Archbishop Molloy High School. He was considered one the most talented ballplayers in America at that time. College recruiters had begun scouting him in the sixth grade.
Anderson was a four-time high school All-American and the first player to be named All-City four times. He set the all-time New York State scoring record, and was a McDonald’s All-American and named High School Basketball Player of the Year in 1989, his senior year. Anderson accepted an athletic scholarship to Georgia Tech, turning down the University of North Carolina, Duke and Syracuse. He was drafted second in the first round by the New Jersey Nets in 1991 after two productive college seasons. He played for nine NBA teams during his 14 year career.