What Happened to Cody Zeller? Why Does Cody Zeller Wear a Face Mask?
by Kowsalya
Updated Jun 05, 2023
What Happened to Cody Zeller?
While it may be said that Cody Zeller's true breakout moment came when he started wearing a mask, it is important to note that he was not an entirely unknown player before that. As the No. 4 overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, he entered the league with high expectations and was regarded as a promising prospect.
However, in recent years, Zeller's career had taken a downturn. He had bounced around between three different teams over the past three seasons and found himself out of the rotation with the Hornets and Trail Blazers in 2021 and 2022 respectively.
During that period, it seemed like Zeller's basketball journey might be reaching its end. But in February, the Miami Heat signed him, recognizing the need for his size and presence off the bench. Since then, Zeller has assumed a role as a reserve big man for the team.
So, while it is true that NBA fans were aware of Zeller's existence, the mystery surrounding him lies in the reason behind his decision to wear a mask. This distinctive game-day look, complemented by his Heat uniform and balding hairstyle, has piqued the curiosity of fans who are not familiar with the 6-11 center's appearance on the court.
Why Does Cody Zeller Wear a Face Mask?
Cody Zeller began wearing a mask due to a broken nose he sustained during the Miami Heat's game against the Orlando Magic on March 11. The injury occurred when Jalen Suggs accidentally elbowed Zeller in the face as he drove to the basket.
In addition to the broken nose, Zeller also received stitches under his eye as a result of the collision, as confirmed by the Heat. Following the injury, Zeller had to sit out for six games and missed 17 days of action. Upon his return, he decided to continue wearing the mask for added protection.
This is not the first time Zeller has worn a mask during his career. In 2021, while playing for the Portland Trail Blazers, he had to undergo surgery for a broken nose and wore a mask during his recovery.
The current mask is custom-made, just like the previous one. Zeller described the process of making the mask, which involved a plaster cast of his entire face and small tubes inserted in his nose for breathing. Although uncomfortable, he found that this second mask fit much better than the previous one made using facial laser mapping.
While wearing a mask may not be pleasant, it serves as a necessary precaution for Zeller to protect himself on the court, especially considering the risk of suffering another broken nose.
Who is Cody Zeller?
Cody Allen Zeller, born on October 5, 1992, is an American basketball player who currently competes for the Miami Heat in the NBA. Prior to his professional career, he played college basketball for the Indiana Hoosiers.
Zeller was chosen as the fourth overall pick in the 2013 NBA draft by the team known at that time as the Charlotte Bobcats. Notably, he comes from a basketball family, as his brothers Tyler and Luke have also played in the NBA, and his uncle is former NBA player Al Eberhard.
Cody Zeller Age
Cody Zeller's age is 30 years old. During his freshman year of high school, Cody Zeller contributed an average of 2.5 points and 1.4 rebounds per game while playing for the Washington Hatchets.
His team emerged victorious, securing the Class 3A IHSAA state championship. Progressing into his sophomore season, Zeller's performance significantly improved as he averaged 15.0 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. In his junior year, Zeller played a pivotal role in leading Washington to another Class 3A state championship. He boasted impressive averages of 20.5 points and 11.4 rebounds per game, earning recognition as an Indiana Junior All-Star.
During his senior year of high school, Zeller's skills continued to shine as he played a key role in guiding the Hatchets to their third Class 3A IHSAA state championship.
He exhibited remarkable statistics, averaging 24.6 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. Zeller's exceptional performance led him to be named an Indiana Senior All-Star, and he further showcased his talent by leading the Indiana Senior All-Stars to a successful two-game sweep against the Kentucky All-Stars.
What Happened to Cody Zeller-FAQs
While it may be said that Cody Zeller's true breakout moment came when he started wearing a mask, it is important to note that he was not an entirely unknown player before that. As the No. 4 overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, he entered the league with high expectations and was regarded as a promising prospect.
Cody Zeller began wearing a mask due to a broken nose he sustained during the Miami Heat's game against the Orlando Magic on March 11. The injury occurred when Jalen Suggs accidentally elbowed Zeller in the face as he drove to the basket.
Cody Allen Zeller, born on October 5, 1992, is an American basketball player who currently competes for the Miami Heat in the NBA.
Cody Allen Zeller was born on October 5, 1992.