John Wall began suffering pain in his left knee in 2013 with it escalating in 2014 and becoming unbearable in 2015.

“I’ve been in pain for the past three years,” Wall told Scott Brooks when he became head coach of the Washington Wizards.

Wall was quietly going through three hours of treatment for patellar tendinitis in his left knee on a daily basis. 

“Three years of misery,” Wall said. “I couldn’t do extra practice, couldn’t take extra shots, couldn’t improve my craft.”

In January 2016, Wall left agent Dan Fegan for Rich Paul of Klutch Sports Group, who had been following him for years. “I think you have another level,” said Paul, who is based in Cleveland. “I don’t think you’re right.”

Paul took Wall to see Dr. Richard Parker, who removed a five-millimeter bone spur from Wall's left knee. Wall keeps a photo of the prehistoric saber tooth looking spur on his phone. 

“Nobody saw the real John Wall,” said Wall.

Wall became the first player ever to average at least 20 points, 10 assists, four rebounds, two steals and .5 blocks. 

“Some people get their success early,” Wall said. “Some get theirs late. I feel like my time is just beginning.”