Shawn Bradley's Spouse & Family: Relationships & Life After Injury
What does it truly mean to be a legend? For Shawn Bradley, the towering figure of the NBA, its a story etched in hardwood courts, silver screens, and the poignant realities of life beyond the game.
Born in Landstuhl, West Germany, on March 22, 1972, Bradley's journey is a complex tapestry woven with threads of athletic triumph, familial bonds, and the unforeseen challenges that life presents. From his early days, it was clear that Bradley was destined for greatness. His towering height of 7'6" was a gift, and it propelled him to the forefront of the basketball world. However, his story is far from a simple narrative of success. Its a narrative of resilience, a testament to the human spirit, and a reminder that life, much like a game of basketball, can be both exhilarating and heartbreaking.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shawn Paul Bradley |
| Date of Birth | March 22, 1972 |
| Place of Birth | Landstuhl, West Germany |
| Height | 7'6" |
| Weight | 235 pounds (107 kilograms) |
| Marital Status | Married to Carrie Cannon (since January 2018) |
| Previous Marriage | Annette Evertson (divorced in 2018) |
| Children | Six children with Annette Evertson, and three adopted children with Carrie Cannon |
| NBA Draft | 1993, 2nd overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers |
| Notable Films | Space Jam (1996), The Singles Ward (2002) |
| Other Appearances | Walker, Texas Ranger (1993) |
| Current Status | Paralyzed from the shoulders down due to a bike accident in January 2021. |
| Reference | NBA.com - Shawn Bradley Profile |
Bradleys journey began on the basketball court, where his imposing stature and developing skills quickly marked him as a force to be reckoned with. The Philadelphia 76ers recognized his potential, drafting him as the second overall pick in the 1993 NBA draft, behind Chris Webber. He would later play for the New Jersey Nets and the Dallas Mavericks, captivating audiences with his shot-blocking prowess and presence in the paint. Michael Jordan himself, recognizing Bradley's potential for widespread appeal, tapped him for a role in the iconic 1996 film, Space Jam, further solidifying his place in pop culture.
Beyond the bright lights of the NBA, Bradley has always had a complex personal life. He was married to Annette Evertson before he met Carrie. This marriage, which began in 1993, before his entry into the big leagues, bore six children. However, the relationship eventually came to an end, culminating in a divorce in 2018 after 25 years together. In 2017, he married Carrie Cannon, and in 2019 he adopted her three children, creating a new chapter in his family life. It's clear that his journey is not just about professional achievements; it's a story about family, connection, and the evolving definition of home.
The narrative took a heartbreaking turn on January 2021, when a devastating bike accident in St. George, Utah, left Bradley paralyzed from the shoulders down. The accident, a collision with a vehicle, changed his life forever. He was forced to confront a new reality, one where the simple act of moving was no longer possible. The Dallas Mavericks released a statement, expressing their support for the former center. In an interview with Sports Illustrated in 2022, Bradley revealed that he and his family were considering moving to a new home, indicating a constant adaptation to his changing circumstances.
The accident has forced Bradley to confront a reality he could have never imagined. In an exclusive visit, KSL returned to the crash site with Shawn and his wife, a moment of raw emotion as they faced the scene of the life-altering incident. The impact of the crash reverberated far beyond his physical limitations. Bradley acknowledged that life "will never be the same." He has found solace and strength in his wife, Carrie Cannon, who has become a beacon of support and love during these difficult times. His bond with Carrie is very strong and he expressed that he only wanted to talk with his wife Carrie Cannon as he waited for paramedics after the accident.
Bradley's story is also a testament to his character. Despite the immense physical and emotional challenges he faces, Bradley remains a source of inspiration. His resilience is evident in every aspect of his life. One example is his daughter, Charity Bradley, who is making a name for herself on the volleyball court, mirroring her father's athletic spirit. Bradley's commitment to his family is ongoing, highlighting the deep roots that anchor him. His story is a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit to persevere through adversity.
Bradley is not merely a name in the history books; he's an individual who has touched the lives of many. He is also finding ways to maintain connections, as seen when he returned to a BYU game three years after the accident, where he received a heartwarming welcome from the community. His story serves as a reminder that a legacy goes beyond the court. It is a testament to an individual's ability to adapt, find strength, and remain connected to the world around him.
The story of Shawn Bradley is more than just a basketball narrative; its a human story. It is about resilience, adaptation, and finding strength in the face of adversity. It is a reminder that even in the face of the most daunting challenges, the human spirit can endure, adapt, and even inspire. This is the essence of what makes Shawn Bradley a true legend, and a reminder that even when the game changes, the spirit of the player lives on.
The complexities of his personal life, including estrangement from his first family and the more recent adoption of his second wife's children, highlight the human element of his story, and that life is not always a straight line. It is filled with twists, turns, and unexpected detours. As Bradley navigates this new chapter in his life, he inspires others through his journey of ongoing adaptation, showing that challenges do not have to define us, but instead, they can refine us. He remains a visible example of perseverance for those facing difficult circumstances.
And while the bright lights of the court may have faded, the story of Shawn Bradley continues to be written, one of resilience, one act of kindness, and one moment of strength at a time. He is an example of determination, courage, and the enduring power of the human spirit.
