Former NBA center undergoes successful heart transplant

Pollard's wife, Dawn, announced that Pollard's heart transplant was successful, though as with all organ transplants, the recovery can be difficult. He was "awake and feeling great" afterward, according to his spouse.

The heart transplant was necessary after Pollard caught a virus in 2021 that likely triggered a dormant genetic condition. He had been waiting for a transplant at the Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where finding a match was difficult. Pollard was listed at 6-foot-11 and 265 pounds during his playing career.

Pollard became a fan favorite in Sacramento after signing there during his second NBA season. He was a high-energy backup to Chris Webber and Vlade Divac during the best era of basketball in Sacramento's history. Pollard was never a scorer, but he was known for his tough defense and excellent offensive rebounding. And his crazy facial hair.

He was known as "Samurai Scot" due to his signature topknot as a King, but featured a wide variety of crazy beards and mustaches.

That's what made his pre-surgery moments so poignant. When he knew the new heart was on its way, Pollard had to shave off his hair and impressive beard.

In his final season, Pollard played 22 games for the NBA champion Boston Celtics. He later appeared on the 32nd season of the CBS reality competition "Survivor," where he finished ninth.

This time, he's become an even more important survivor. Pollard is currently recovering in Nashville.