Heartwarming Journey of NBA Veteran’s Life-Saving Transplant

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana — Eleven-year NBA veteran Scot Pollard reflects on a life transformed after receiving a heart transplant on February 16, 2024. Pollard’s journey to recovery began after he spent more than three years battling genetic heart disease. His health deteriorated rapidly, leading him to Vanderbilt University Medical Center for evaluation and ultimately a transplant.

In the months leading to the transplant, Scot’s condition worsened. He experienced end-stage heart failure and was admitted to intensive care where doctors urgently sought a donor heart. “I was really attached to this heart,” Pollard said. “My biggest fear was that the next one wasn’t going to be good enough.”

The gift of life came from Casey Angell, a 45-year-old from Texas who passed away from pneumonia complications. His family’s decision to donate his organs has forever changed Scot’s life. Upon receiving the heart, Scot wrote a heartfelt letter to Angell’s family, expressing gratitude and respect for their sacrifice.

Scot’s journey has inspired him to raise awareness about organ donation in his community. He hopes to honor Casey Angell’s memory by encouraging others to become organ donors. “Your loved one’s heart is going to be loved and cared for and will give love back,” Scot wrote in his letter.

After months of waiting, Scot received a response from Angell’s family, who were touched by his words. They expressed a desire to meet and share stories about their loved one. On March 17, 2025, Scot and his family met the Angells, fostering a bond forged in tragedy and hope.

Today, Scot, now 50, continues to thrive with his new heart. He has been named grand marshal of the Indy 500 Festival Parade, showcasing not just his resilience but also the importance of organ donation. As he focuses on family, including his son Ozzy and others, he reflects on how precious each moment is.

Scot’s story exemplifies the impact of organ donation and the connections that can emerge even from loss. As he prepares to support his children and live fully, he’s committed to honoring Casey Angell’s legacy.