At just 13, Sarah Ashlee Barker faced a life-altering diagnosis of osteochondritis dissecans, jeopardizing her WNBA aspirations. After an unsuccessful surgery left her with uncertain prospects, she underwent a more invasive procedure, managing fears of reduced athleticism. However, a remarkable career path followed, leading to her selection as the ninth overall pick in the WNBA draft by the Sparks after impressive college performances, particularly during March Madness where she scored record points for Alabama. Barker's journey underscores her resilience in overcoming adversity to fulfill her basketball dreams.
At 13 years old, Sarah Ashlee Barker came close to losing her dream of becoming a WNBA player before it began. Barker was an eighth-grader when she was diagnosed with osteochondritis dissecans, a condition that disrupts blood flow to a bone beneath joint cartilage, causing pain and limiting mobility.
Thankfully, the surgery did end up working. But I did have those what-ifs in the back of my mind. ... I'm just so grateful for one more game or practice. ... I almost had it taken away from me.
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