Former Mavs centre Bradley paralyzed after being struck by car while biking

In this Nov. 22, 1997, file photo, Dallas Mavericks' Shawn Bradley (44) looks to pass as Milwaukee Bucks' Ervin Johnson (40) defends during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game at the Reunion Arena in Dallas. (LM Otero / AP)

Shawn Bradley suffered a traumatic spinal cord injury and was paralyzed in January after he was struck by a car while riding his bike a block from his home in St. George, Utah, the former Dallas Mavericks centre revealed Wednesday.

"With his wife Carrie at his side around the clock, and supported by an amazing team of rehabilitation specialists and family, Bradley is in good spirits," said a statement released via the Mavericks on his behalf.

"He plans to use his accident as a platform to bring great public awareness to the importance of bicycle safety."

Bradley underwent neck fusion surgery after the incident on Jan. 20, and has spent the last eight weeks in hospital and undergoing rehabilitation.

The second-overall pick in the 1993 NBA Draft has been advised by doctors that his road to recovery will be "both long and arduous."

"Bradley asked to convey his deep appreciation for the outpouring of well wishes and prayers he has received from family, friends and fans," said the statement.

"Their support has energized his recovery and bolstered his confidence that he will manage the long process ahead successfully."

Bradley, 48, spent 14 seasons in the NBA, with the glut of his career in Dallas where he played for nine campaigns from 1996 to 2005.

"We are saddened to hear of Shawn's accident. Shawn has always been incredibly determined and shown a fighting spirit," said Mavericks owner Mark Cuban in a release.

"We wish him nothing but the best in his recovery. He will always be a part of our Mavs family."

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