A trip to the Final Four was on the line during the Midwest Region final on Sunday the 31^st of March, when an unexpected injury shook the sports nation. With about six and a half minutes left before halftime, Louisville’s guard Kevin Ware contested a three pointer by Tyler Thornton and landed awkwardly on his right leg.

Ware’s right leg snapped like a toothpick resulting in a compound fracture. Play stopped for several minutes while Ware was being attended to by team trainers. Meanwhile, teammate Russ Smith was brought to tears by the sight of Ware’s leg. Players on both teams were shaken up after Ware’s injury.

“It’s such a shame to see someone work so hard for a National Championship, and then have that opportunity vanish because of a freak accident.” Senior Dylan Tucker said.

Louisville players gathered around their teammate before he was carted out on a stretcher. Ware seemed to be the most composed player on the court when he gave encouraging words to his teammates.

“Don’t worry about me. I’ll be OK. You guys go win this thing.” Ware stated. (USA Today)

Louisville went on to beat Duke 85 to 63 and is the only number one seed to make the Final Four.  After the game team mate Chane Behanan was seen wearing Ware’s number five jersey. The Cardinals then took a team picture on the court holding up Ware’s jersey.

Kevin underwent surgery Sunday night for his gruesome injury. Reports indicate it was a success, and he has been seen walking around on his crutches. Nevertheless, Ware has a long road to recovery, that should take about a year for him to fully heal.

This one play could possibly change Ware’s life forever. Even when he is fully recovered there are no promises that he will ever play basketball again. Hopefully, this young man can bounce back and return to the court for his senior year.

Ex-NFL quarterback, Joe Theismann who experienced a gruesome career-ending leg injury, texted Ware offering his assistance with anything he needs. Michael Bush, who attended Louisville and is currently a running back for the Chicago Bears, is expected to give Ware a call. Bush had a similar injury in college and continued on with his successful football career in the NFL.

Hopefully with the support from friends and family, Ware will be able to overcome this horrific tragedy. No one knows what will happen to his basketball career. Regardless, it is safe to safe everyone is wishing him a speedy recovery.