Anthony Davis Embraces Post-Surgery Lifestyle with Protective Glasses as a New Staple – The Athletic
Anthony Davis, known for his pivotal role in the NBA, is adapting to a new post-surgery lifestyle with protective eyewear. After undergoing offseason surgery to repair a detached retina in his right eye, doctors have instructed him to wear protective glasses for the remainder of his career.
Preseason and Training Camp
In the Dallas Mavericks’ Oct. 6 preseason opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Davis confidently sank a 3-pointer shortly after the game began. Despite previous reluctance to wear eyewear, Davis has embraced his new Oakley glasses, feeling comfortable and adjusted after practicing with them during the offseason. Training camp in Vancouver proved crucial for this adaptation.
Performance Insights
While Davis struggled in a recent game against the Charlotte Hornets, he rebounded with an impressive performance against the Utah Jazz. In the victory, he scored 25 points, secured six rebounds, and contributed two steals and two blocks in just 25 minutes on the court.
The Medical Perspective
Dr. Richard Toyos, a Tennessee-based ophthalmologist with a history of working with the Memphis Grizzlies, explained the significance of the macula in detached retina cases. While it’s unclear if Davis’ macula was affected, timely surgery is essential depending on the type of detachment. Patients with macula-on detachments have a higher chance of regaining 20-20 vision.
Post-Surgery Recovery
Davis practiced shooting with the eyewear during the summer, later joining his team for full-court play just before training camp commenced. He was listed at 268 pounds for the training camp, heavier than the previous season, intending to lose a portion of this weight naturally as the season progresses.
Past Injuries and Recovery
Previously with the Los Angeles Lakers, Davis encountered minor eye injuries but avoided prolonged absences. A notable incident occurred in April, when a teammate’s accidental elbow led to stitches but didn’t deter Davis from making a game-winning shot against the Atlanta Hawks.
Protective Glasses: A Long-term Requirement
Protective eyewear is not unprecedented in the NBA. Amar’e Stoudemire, who also suffered a detached retina, adopted glasses post-surgery in 2009. Stoudemire shared insights into his recovery journey, highlighting the challenges faced with such an injury.
Ongoing Adaptation
Throughout his career, Davis has avoided eyewear except during his high school days in Chicago. Now, with sleek Oakley glasses as a crucial part of his uniform, he anticipates having multiple backups ready for the inevitable wear and tear of the game.
