PLG Vice Chairman Blackie Chen recovers smoothly after successful heart attack surgery

Blackie Chen, vice chairman of Taiwan's Professional League of Basketball (PLG), was shockingly reported to have suffered an acute myocardial infarction today. Following an emergency hospital diagnosis, Chen underwent coronary artery bypass surgery in the early hours of the morning. After a period of observation and rehabilitation treatment, his doctors stated that he is recovering well and has now been transferred to a regular ward for peaceful recuperation.

Established in 2018, the PLG aims to promote the professionalization and marketization of professional basketball in Taiwan while enhancing the competitive level of local players and the spectator experience through cooperation with international leagues. As vice chairman, Chen is not only responsible for coordinating operations among various teams but is also a key representative of the league's public image. His role within the league is crucial in advancing the league's business model, arena operations, and the construction of youth training systems.

Chen has been involved in the basketball industry since the early 2000s, successively serving as general manager and chief executive officer for multiple professional teams, thereby accumulating rich management and operational experience. After joining the PLG, he dedicated himself to increasing the league's media exposure and sponsorship partnerships while promoting a "youth training plus professional" development model to cultivate more professional talent for Taiwanese basketball. His passion for basketball culture and his care for fans have earned him a high degree of trust and respect within the industry and among fans.

Acute myocardial infarction is an ischemic heart disease caused by coronary artery occlusion, which, if not treated promptly, can lead to myocardial necrosis or even death. During surgery, Chen underwent coronary artery bypass, restoring blood flow through the implantation of a vascular graft to minimize myocardial damage. Post-surgery, physicians noted that following a successful operation, patients must still take long-term anti-coagulation medications, control blood pressure and blood sugar, and cooperate with physical therapy and lifestyle adjustments to ensure the continued recovery of cardiac function. The medical team is currently closely monitoring his cardiac indicators and has scheduled regular follow-up visits to ensure a smooth rehabilitation process.

This incident has not only caused a temporary impact on the daily operations of the PLG, but it has also served as a reminder to the professional sports industry and administrative management to prioritize health management. Representatives from multiple teams and various players have expressed their concern and well-wishes on social media platforms, calling on all basketball personnel to jointly maintain their physical and mental health. The PLG board of directors also stated that during Chen's recuperation period, other senior executives will temporarily coordinate league affairs to ensure that various operations remain unaffected. In the future, after recovering his health, Chen is expected to continue contributing to the development of Taiwanese basketball.