Former Lakers great Michael Cooper has been diagnosed with tongue cancer, and has taken a leave of absence from his current WNBA head coaching position with The Atlanta Dream.
I’m fortunate that my condition was diagnosed early, and this episode illustrates the importance of screening and early detection,” Cooper said. “I know the team will be in good hands with Coach Thompson at the helm during my absence, and I look forward to returning to the court soon.
Cooper was named to five All NBA defensive teams and won the defensive player of the year award in 1987. The five time NBA champion was obviously known for his defense and former teammate Byron Scott also has said Coop was the best perimeter defender he’s ever seen. Cooper was apart of the “Showtime” era in Los Angeles and played from 1978-1990. Let’s all hope Cooper can make a full recovery and get back to doing what he loves and that’s coaching the game of basketball.
