Many would remember the 2008 NBA finals when Paul Pierce, Celtics star man, got injured in the third quarter. Only a few minutes after he was taken in a wheelchair, he came back and gave a memorable performance. Commonly known as the “Wheelchair Incident”, Paul finally revealed what went on behind the scenes in an interview with ESPN.

Paul’s Wheelchair Incident

The NBA Finals Game 1 between LA Lakers and Boston Celtics took place on 5th Jun, 2008. In the third quarter of the match, Paul went for a layup and in the next moment he was on the ground holding his knee in agony. He was taken off the court in a wheelchair by the medical team and seemed to be in a lot of pain.

In a few minutes, Paul came back, active as ever, and played his highest-scoring quarter with 15 points. He led Celtics to a great win of 98-88 at the end of the match. Celtics went on to win the NBA championship that season, and Paul Pierce was the Finals MVP.

However, many players and analysts shared their concerns over Paul’s injury in the after-match analysis. They speculated that he may not play the next match. Later in the day, in a conference, Paul mentioned that his knee was still sore. The incident remained unfamiliar to many, but there were those who appreciated Paul for his comeback in the game despite the injury. He was applauded for the spirit he exhibited in the match.

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“I have a confession to make,” says Paul Pierce

In the interview, Paul finally revealed the ‘real reason’ behind the wheelchair incident. Just before the 2009 NBA finals match, he said, “I have a confession to make.” 

Paul revealed that he left the court to use the bathroom. When questioned why he needed a wheelchair, the player cheekily replied, “Something went down. I just had to go to the bathroom.” It’s hilarious that everybody at the time thought Paul was seriously injured and needed to take some time off to recover. Do you think players do this often?