April 9, 2026
The first 20 minutes: A healthier start for athletes
A Kaiser Permanente sports medicine physician helps high school athletes prevent injuries, build strength, and perform at their best on and off the court.
Dr. Branden Turner works with Inglewood High School basketball players in Southern California on movement exercises to build confidence, strength, and safer play.
The first 20 minutes before a game or practice can make a difference in how an athlete performs. For women, warm-up exercises are important to help prevent knee injuries, including ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, injuries. The ACL is a connective tissue in the knee that helps keep it stable. ACL injuries are more common in female athletes and can stop them from playing all season.
To help address this risk, Kaiser Permanente invited the Inglewood High School girls varsity basketball team, from Inglewood, California, to Intuit Dome for an injury prevention session. During the visit, the team practiced warm-up exercises that improve movement and help athletes play their best. The session also gave players a closer look at how sports medicine care can support their long-term health as athletes.
Care that supports all athletes
Inglewood High School guard Divine Ugwoegbulem completes her shooting motion during practice, applying skills learned during the ACL injury‑prevention session.
As the official team physicians of the Los Angeles Clippers, Kaiser Permanente uses an evidence-based approach to prevent injuries and support recovery so athletes can move safely and stay ready to play.
This level of care is delivered at the Kaiser Permanente Sports Medicine Center at Intuit Dome, where doctors, physical therapists, and athletic trainers work together to lower injury risk and help athletes perform at their best.
During their visit to Intuit Dome, the girls were introduced to this sports medicine care and how it supports athletes at every level — from high school players like them to professional players.
Learning from experience
During the visit, Branden Turner, MD, a sports medicine physician at Kaiser Permanente Sports Medicine Center at Intuit Dome, helped lead the session. As a former high school athlete who has dealt with injuries himself, Dr. Turner understands what young athletes go through.
“Proper warm‑up and training aren’t just about preparation,” said Dr. Turner. “By focusing on safe movement and recovery, we help athletes prepare their bodies for the demands of the game.”
Marshall LeMoine, a Kaiser Permanente physical therapist, adjusts an athlete’s form during warm‑up exercises focused on safer movement and injury prevention.
For Inglewood High School varsity guard Divine Ugwoegbulem the session hit close to home. She is currently recovering from an ACL tear.
“Practicing these warm‑ups helps me feel confident and ready to step on the court,” said Ugwoegbulem. She plans to continue using the exercises as she builds strength and prepares for next season.
Helping athletes shine
Experiences like this give students access to care and guidance they may not otherwise have. They help young athletes build healthy habits that support confidence and strong performance.
“Access to Kaiser Permanente’s training and resources gives our students the tools to reach their full potential, on the court and in life,” said Lamar Collins, principal of Inglewood High School. “These experiences empower them to take control of their growth, stay healthy, and succeed.”
Kaiser Permanente offers tools to help build healthy habits for life. Find helpful fitness and exercise tips and tricks.
