Many might wonder why Cody Zeller, the center for Miami Heat, adorns a face mask during his games
This 2023 NBA Finals, Zeller’s unusual accessory has piqued curiosity among fans and sports enthusiasts alike.
The journey of this fourth overall pick from the 2013 NBA Draft, his fall from grace, and his extraordinary comeback all seem to culminate in the distinctive mask he wears today.
Why does Cody Zeller wear a face mask and nose injury update
Once a highly anticipated prospect, Zeller found himself slipping through the ranks of the NBA. His career seemed on the brink of termination as he bounced between three different teams in three seasons. Zeller’s stint with the Hornets and Trail Blazers in 2021 and 2022 saw him barely holding on to the rotation.
Someone tell cody zeller he looks ugly as fuck in that mask pic.twitter.com/QKkp82TTvG
— DieForDesmond (@RiddlerIsHim) June 2, 2023
However, Zeller’s career received a much-needed lifeline in February 2023 when the Miami Heat decided to sign him, augmenting their bench with his imposing size. Since then, Zeller has been a steadfast presence as a reserve big. The question that now hovers in the air is – why does this veteran sport a mask on game day?
The broken nose behind Cody Zeller’s mask
The answer lies in an unfortunate incident during a match against the Magic on March 11. Zeller suffered a broken nose courtesy of an accidental elbow to the face from Jalen Suggs. The collision also left Zeller with stitches under his eye, sidelining him for six games and 17 days.
On his return, Zeller made the decision to wear a protective mask to safeguard himself on the court. This wasn’t Zeller’s first tryst with a protective mask though; he had worn one in 2021 during his time with the Trail Blazers after undergoing surgery for another broken nose.
Crafting the perfect Cody Zeller’s mask
Zeller’s mask, a custom creation, is the second one he’s had during his career. The first, a product of facial laser mapping during his Charlotte days, didn’t meet Zeller’s satisfaction. He described the process for his second, more comfortable mask, which involved a plaster cast over his face and minuscule tubes in his nostrils to allow breathing during the process. This unpleasant but necessary procedure ensured a better-fitted mask that could provide Zeller with the protection he needs on court.
Indeed, the mask has now become an integral part of Cody Zeller’s NBA persona. As he battles the Nuggets in the 2023 NBA Finals, it’s more than just protective gear—it’s a symbol of resilience, overcoming adversity, and enduring in a highly competitive sports world. With every game, Cody Zeller continues to reaffirm his standing in the NBA, his mask a testament to his indomitable spirit.
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