Kenny Anderson, the second overall pick in the 1991 NBA draft and an All-Star selection in 1994, has been hospitalized and since released after suffering a stroke, as first reported by The New York Daily News. Anderson’s wife Natasha has since released the following statement addressing Anderson’s health:
“We would like to thank everyone for reaching out on behalf of Kenny. Our family is extremely grateful for all the prayers and love that we have received. We appreciate you continuing to respect our privacy as Kenny heals.”
Since being appointed in September 2018, Anderson has been serving as the Head Coach of the Fisk University Men’s basketball team out of Nashville, TN. Several in the basketball world have already extended their well-wishes to the former 14-year NBA veteran.
All the best to the great Kenny Anderson. https://t.co/iuI2itQytV
— Jay Bilas (@JayBilas) February 26, 2019
Prayers up for New York's own Kenny Anderson…??
— Brandon Tierney (@BrandonTierney) February 26, 2019
Prayers up Kenny Anderson!
— Jamal Crawford (@JCrossover) February 27, 2019
???????????? for my homey Kenny Anderson @chibbs_1 ..Praying for speedy and full recovery..
— Olden Polynice (@OldenPolynice1) February 27, 2019
PLEASE, Send some prayers for my guy @MrChibbs aka #KennyAnderson who is recovering from a stroke. https://t.co/2RDu4gBVM6
— Cedric Ceballos (@cedceballos) February 26, 2019
Following the re-negotiation of the Collective Bargaining Agreement in late 2016, players such as Anderson who played three or more years in the NBA are now eligible for comprehensive healthcare coverage, a response to the NBPA urging the league to provide expanded health coverage for retired players back in 2015.
Kenny Anderson averaged 12.6 points and 6.1 assists per game throughout his career with nine different teams. He had his life story and career featured in director Jill Campbell’s 2017 film Mr. Chibbs.
