11/23/24
November 10, 2009
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in Treatment for Rare Leukemia: Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, 62, was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia last December, he has revealed. The NBA's all-time leading scorer with 38,387 points, Jabbar said he's doing well in treatment and hasn't cut back his schedule as a Lakers' assistant coach. "There is hope," he said. "This condition can be treated."
posted by rcade to basketball at 08:45 AM - 7 comments
I thought he was the greatest, but my dad says he didn't work hard enough on defense. And he said that lots of times, he didn't even run down court. And that he didn't really try... except during the playoffs.
He was one of the best I've ever had the pleasure to watch, and will be in my prayers also.
posted by smithnyiu at 11:55 AM on November 10, 2009
Smithnyiu, tell your old man to drag Walton and Lanier up and down the court for 48 minutes.
The only game I ever remember seeing Kareem play on live TV was his last game against the Pistons in the NBA finals in 1989. I remember my uncle pointing out to me to remember that moment and watching Kareem walk off the court for the final time.
posted by Demophon at 12:10 PM on November 10, 2009
I saw Kareem play the Mavericks in game 6 of the Western Conference Finals in 1988, when the Dallas Mavericks won to force game 7. I wasn't a fan. Damn skyhook.
posted by rcade at 01:53 PM on November 10, 2009
Never saw the man play live but I sure do remember seeing him lot's on TV. Whether he played hard on defense or not the dude was an absolute game changer. Here's hoping that the docs are right and that he can live his life normally without too much to hinder him. And that it still has many more chapters left.
posted by THX-1138 at 02:36 PM on November 10, 2009
I saw Kareem play as a Buck and a Laker and met him informally some months back. I wish him and all those who suffer from f------ Cancer godspeed.
posted by thatch at 09:19 PM on November 10, 2009
Simmons' book convinced me that Kareem is a ninny, - but he gets a pass-4-life by virtue of being Roger Murdock.
"We have clearance, Clarence. "
posted by WeedyMcSmokey at 06:07 PM on November 11, 2009
I remember growing up watching Kareem play towards the twilight of his illustrious career. He was such a fascinating individual to watch as he was one of a few players to utilize the infamous sky hook. I do hope that he makes a full recovery and I will keep this great man in my prayers.