The Detroit Sports Medicine Foundation had the honor of Dr. Benjamin Paolucci being a member of its Board of Directors since 2010.   He shared its mission to support sports medicine research and education for physicians, physician assistants, certified athletic trainers (ATC) and physician therapists.  Additionally, Dr. Paolucci and other board members hoped to expand its mission by supporting ATC’s and injury prevention programs in Metro Detroit and surrounding area schools.  Dr. Paolucci played an integral role in the formation of the Detroit Medical Center’s Sports Medicine Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship which has become one of the best in the country.  Former surgical and non-surgical sports medicine fellows felt that Dr. Paolucci’s presence was an unexpected bonus to their fellowship.  His demeanor and connection with athletes were genuine.  They trusted him because of his high moral character and his ability to understand and relate to their needs.  His reputation was without equal after 45 years in the National Basketball Association. 

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Dr. Paolucci was an athlete, scholar, great and humble man who was a talented general surgeon in Detroit, the cherished team physician to the Detroit Pistons NBA basketball team for 45 years, and most importantly loved by his family, friends, patients and colleagues.   We had the fortune to work with him for 12 years with the Pistons, 11 years with the Board of Directors, and will benefit from a lifetime of memories and sage advice that he shared with us all. We are honored that the Detroit Sports Medicine Foundation will continue his legacy through his dedication and love for sports through supporting orthopaedic and sports medicine research and academic education.