Back on the court after ACL surgery
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Thursday, July 2, 2026
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When Bailee Smith tore the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in her left knee during a college basketball game in 2025, she knew where to turn.
Three years earlier, she tore the ACL in her right knee during practice and trusted Genesis Orthopedic Center for her care. “That was my first big surgery,” said Bailee. “I felt comfortable. They made things easy for me to get back to the game.” Because of that experience, Bailee didn’t hesitate when she injured her left knee. |  Bailee Smith, the all-time women’s leading scorer at Maysville High School, is training this summer as she prepares for her final college season. |
“The choice was simple,” said Bailee. “Genesis was familiar. My care team knew me by name and helped me stay focused on my goal.”
Bailee returned to Thai Q. Trinh, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine Physician at Genesis Orthopedic Sports Medicine, who had performed her right ACL repair in 2022.
“ACL tears are common among athletes,” said Dr. Trinh. “Bailee wanted to compete again, and together we created a plan to help her do that safely.”
Thai Q. Trinh, M.D.
Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Sports Medicine Physician
Genesis Orthopedic Sports Medicine
Rebounding with determination
Like her first surgery, Bailee approached her left ACL recovery one step at a time. Through physical therapy, she rebuilt strength, improved stability and made steady progress.
“Recovering from an ACL injury takes commitment,” said Dr. Trinh. “Bailee knew what it would take, and she stayed determined from start to finish.”
Bailee completed physical therapy for her left knee in May and feels strong.
“I rebuilt my confidence,” said Bailee. “I feel like myself and am ready to be the athlete I was before the injury.”
Bailee plans to become a basketball coach and stay connected to the sport that has played such an important role in her life. She’s preparing for summer practices with her team ahead of her final college season.
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