TEANECK, NJ — The roar of the crowd was deafening, the confetti still falling, and the champagne barely dry when tragedy struck the Teaneck Highwaymen’s celebrated victory.
Just days after clinching the state championship in a nail-biting overtime thriller, star forward Derek “D-Money” Matthews suffered a devastating injury during a routine practice session that could end his basketball career for good.
The 22-year-old phenom, whose clutch plays and electric energy carried the Highwaymen throughout the season, was rushed to University Hospital last night after collapsing on the court with severe knee damage. Doctors confirmed that Matthews sustained a torn ACL and multiple ligament tears, injuries often considered career-threatening for professional athletes.
“He’s the heart and soul of this team,” said Head Coach Vince Ramirez, visibly shaken. “We just won a title, and now we’re facing the worst news imaginable.”
Matthews’ meteoric rise from a local high school standout to state champion seemed unstoppable — until now. Fans and teammates alike are grappling with the sudden shift from jubilation to despair.
Social media exploded with messages of support, but the mood remains somber. For many, the injury isn’t just a personal loss for Matthews; it’s a blow to the community that rallied behind the Highwaymen’s underdog journey.
“This team gave us hope,” said longtime fan and Teaneck resident Lisa Ortega. “And now, seeing Derek like this… it’s just heartbreaking.”
While rehabilitation is already underway, experts caution that a full recovery to pre-injury form is uncertain, especially given the severity. The Highwaymen face a tough offseason ahead — not just in terms of rebuilding the roster, but in healing the spirit of a team and town rocked by unforeseen disaster.