Tracy McGrady Considered Using Illegal Drugs When He Was Injured

• Tracy McGrady considered performance-enhancing drugs after facing career-altering injuries in the NBA

• Multiple injuries, especially post-2008 surgeries, affected McGrady's on-court performance and confidence

• Research on potential health risks stopped him from taking the illicit route

Tracy McGrady, a renowned figure in the NBA, has a candid revelation,  stating that the thought of resorting to performance-enhancing drugs did cross his mind during the course of his basketball career. However, he emphasized his decision to not "cross that line."

Opening up on NBA TV's Open Court, McGrady shared, “Because I was playing at such a high level for so many years, and when I had my knee injury, I was doing everything in my willpower to get back to that level. Naturally, I couldn’t do it. I didn't have the strength, the confidence, and genuinely believed I wouldn't get back there doing it naturally. The thought of gaining an edge, even if it meant stepping outside legal boundaries, did cross my mind."

View the original article to see embedded media.

Throughout his 15-year-long NBA journey, McGrady faced numerous injuries that frequently disrupted his performance on the court. The impact of these physical setbacks was not just physical but mental as well. It eroded his confidence and made him question his capabilities.

The pivotal factor that deterred McGrady from taking the illicit route was his findings on the potential adverse effects of these drugs. His decision to refrain was backed by his research into the possible repercussions on his health.

It is notable that McGrady's encounters with injuries, particularly those related to his knees, were especially pronounced in the twilight of his career. Post undergoing arthroscopic surgeries in his left shoulder and knee in 2008's summer, McGrady's performance took a discernible hit. He couldn't surpass an average of 20 points per game in any subsequent season. Moreover, post his surgery in 2008, he only managed to play over 50 games in just two out of the following five seasons.

The confession offers a rare peek into the pressures and challenges NBA athletes face, not just in the realm of physical fitness but also in the mental battles they wage behind the scenes.

---

Injury History Of Tracy McGrady

Tracy McGrady, fondly known as T-Mac, was undeniably one of the most prodigious talents the NBA has ever witnessed. However, his illustrious career was marred by a series of injuries that significantly impacted his play and durability over the years.

Throughout his NBA journey, T-Mac faced a myriad of injuries. Early in his career, he dealt with back issues which occasionally sidelined him. However, it was the persistent knee and back injuries that became a perennial problem, especially during his time with the Houston Rockets. McGrady underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee in 2008 and microfracture surgery in 2009. These surgeries and their resultant rehabilitation periods led to him missing a substantial number of games. Moreover, issues with his right elbow and shoulder also surfaced, further truncating his playing time.

Analyzing his entire 16-season NBA career, McGrady played in all 82 games of a regular season only twice, specifically during the 2002-2003 and 2004-2005 seasons. Over his entire career, he missed more than 250 regular-season games due to these injuries, which averages out to missing roughly 15.6 games per season.

These setbacks undoubtedly took a toll on McGrady's career, but despite them, his talent and determination ensured he left a lasting legacy in the league.

---

What Could Tracy McGrady Have Been If He Was Healthy?

Tracy McGrady's natural talent and prowess on the basketball court have always been undeniable. Had injuries not riddled his career, T-Mac might well be spoken of today in the same breath as legends like Kobe Bryant and Dwyane Wade. A healthy McGrady could have realistically contested for 2-3 NBA titles and multiple MVP awards.

Throughout his career, despite the setbacks, McGrady showcased moments of sheer brilliance. His career averages of 19.6 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game are a testament to his exceptional skills. Notably, in the 2002-2003 season, he averaged a staggering 32.1 points per game, cementing his position as one of the NBA's elite scorers. This season stands out as a testament to what could have been a regular occurrence in a potential injury-free career.

Among his accolades, T-Mac was a 7-time NBA All-Star and two-time NBA scoring champion. These honors, remarkable as they are, only offer a glimpse of the potential heights he could have reached. With uninterrupted health, McGrady might not only have garnered individual accolades but also led his teams to greater postseason success. It's conceivable that conversations about the game's all-time greats would invariably include Tracy McGrady.

We sincerely appreciate and respect you as a reader of our site. It would help us a lot if you follow us on Google News because of the latest update.

Thanks for following us. We really appreciate your support.