Boston Celtics forward Mickael Pietrus was taken off the court on a stretcher after taking a scary fall during the second quarter of a Friday night game against the 76ers in Philadelphia.
The injury occurred when Pietrus attacked the middle of Philadelphia's defense, running into 76ers forward Elton Brand. Pietrus lost his balance and flew backwards, landing hard on his back. As he fell, he attempted to keep him neck from snapping to hit the court and he appeared to suffer whiplash. He immediately held his neck and rolled over in pain.
Pietrus was taken off the court on a stretcher and then transported to an area hospital.
The Celtics reported later Friday night that Pietrus suffered a "questionable closed head injury" (concussion). He was given an X-ray and a CT scan and he will undergo an MRI. He will remain in Philadelphia on Friday night. The Celtics next play on Sunday against the Washington Wizards in Boston.
On Saturday, the team reported that Pietrus had been cleared to travel and would be examined in Boston.
Later Saturday, Pietrus tweeted: "I'm feeling much better and will keep you posted on my recovery. Hope to be back with my [Celtics] soon."
If the concussion diagnosis holds, Pietrus will be subject to the NBA's new concussion policy, which requires clearance by an NBA-appointed doctor before he can return to play.
Pietrus left the game with Boston leading 39-38. He departed with 4 points, 2 rebounds and 1 steal on 1-for-5 shooting in 12 minutes.
Here's the video of Boston Celtics forward Mickael Pietrus' scary fall against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Mickael Pietrus (concussion) cleared to travel after hospitalization
Boston Celtics forward Mickael Pietrus was taken off the court on a stretcher after taking a scary fall during a Friday night game against the Philadelphia 76ers.
By
Ben Golliver
•
1 min read