NBL 2023: Harry Froling’s ray of hope for return as he faces long road back from serious head injuries

Harry Froling is yet to be cleared for physical activity following an alleged one-punch attack in January, but he has some hope of a return. And a host of clubs have shown interest.

Harry Froling is yet to be cleared for physical activity following an alleged one-punch attack in January, but he has some hope of a return. Photo: Brett Hemmings/Getty Images.

Former Brisbane Bullets big man Harry Froling faces the prospect of never playing competitive basketball again as he recovers from a fractured skull and bleeding on the brain following a one-punch attack.

Froling is yet to be cleared for physical activity and faces a long road back after sustaining shocking injuries in an alleged assault on the NSW south coast in January.

The 25-year-old’s father, former NBL player Shane Froling, posted a photo to Twitter of his son’s shaved head and dramatic scar following his major surgery in hospital.

Froling was knocked unconscious in the alleged attack in Wollongong on January 22 about 2.40am, following Brisbane’s clash against the Illawarra Hawks.

Harry Frolling bears the scars of surgery to repair his fractured skull and alleviate bleeding on the brain. Picture: Shane Froling/Twitter

Hospitalised in the wake of the attack, Froling apparently discharged himself the next morning, flew home to Brisbane, and then attended hospital there after complaining of headaches.

It was there that the extent of his injuries became clear, and he had immediate surgery after suffering a fractured skull and bleeding on the brain.

Froling has spent the past four months recovering in a bid to return to the NBL, as soon as next season.

He still requires approval to train, but he is hoping to make a successful comeback.

Froling will have no shortage of NBL interest should he return.

It’s understood a number of clubs have expressed interest in the 154-game big man if he can gain approval to play.

Froling has attracted interest from clubs. Picture: Chris Hyde/Getty Images

Froling has proven he belongs on the professional stage following successful stints with Townsville, Adelaide, Illawarra and Brisbane dating back to 2016.

He also has time on his side to recover.

The 2023/2024 NBL season tips-off on September 28, giving Froling at least four months to be given the green light to return.

His father took to Twitter in February to update his son’s condition following the incident.

“Harrison Froling is out of hospital and recovering,” Froling senior wrote.

“As much as we would love to address media and questions we will leave it until police evidence is presented.

“He is on the mend, thankyou for the care and love sent.”

Originally published as NBL 2023: Harry Froling’s ray of hope for return as he faces long road back from serious head injuries