
Jumper’s Knee Rehab: Don’t Overlook This Muscle
Are you facing persistent knee pain, especially below your knee, after activities like running, jumping, or playing basketball? If so, you may be dealing with
Our mission is to empower the basketball community with evidence-based information relevant to injuries, injury prevention, and rehab, as well as, movement re-training to optimize performance of all skill level athletes.
As avid basketball players as children, the love for the game continued to grow throughout our lives. From watching the game being played at all levels to attending basketball camps to going through the ups and down of our own basketball journey. We each experienced numerous injuries and set-backs, which exposed us to the realization that our childhood dreams of playing in the NBA was not a realistic goal. As a result, we re-evaluated our goals and focused on our education, which led us to becoming Doctors of Physical Therapy at the University of Southern California.
Equipped with our attained knowledge throughout our educational careers, we wanted to combine our passions for healthcare, movement, biomechanics, and basketball to provide information, care, and training for the basketball community. Although playing basketball for a career is no longer the driving force of staying connected to basketball, we hope to make a positive impact on the game we love by helping and collaborating with anyone involved in the basketball community to meet a common goal; whether it be making the high school/collegiate team, playing in weekly recreational leagues for life, or optimizing movement and skills to play recreationally and professionally.
We believe in an athlete-centered approach with a support team around you. This is to ensure you are getting the most out of your game plan and coaching to build the foundation for a healthy athlete and to meet your goals!

We are a team of Doctors of Physical Therapy and Strength & Conditioning Coaches that are experts in sport related injuries, surgeries, rehab and return to sport.

Gabe, a Bay Area native, developed a passion for both academics and sports early on, excelling in basketball and golf. He competed in both throughout his youth, receiving offers to walk on for Division I golf teams. Instead, he prioritized academics and basketball, joining the University of the Pacific’s practice team while earning his Bachelor’s degree in Sports Medicine and Psychology with honors in 2014.
He went on to earn his Doctorate of Physical Therapy from USC in 2017 and began his career in orthopedic, sports and concussion rehabilitation. He spent most of his early career at sports performance clinic, working with athletes from youth to professional levels, including those in the NFL, NBA, G-League, UFC, NHL, and MLB. In 2020, he became a board-certified orthopedic specialist and co-founded The Basketball Doctors.
In 2021 to 2025, Gabe served as the role of medical director and head physiotherapist for a professional rugby team competing nationally and internationally. He sharpened his skills to be able organize and program a plan of care from an acute/on the field injury to return to sport, as well as, organizing an athlete’s plan of care with all healthcare providers, coaches, and family involved. This opportunity allowed him to collaborate with top healthcare providers and coaches worldwide, including South Africa, Fiji, France, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, UAE, Canada, and Mexico.
Outside of work, Gabe enjoys staying active through sports, competing in recreational adult basketball leagues, working out, and outdoor activities. His passion and expertise drive his commitment to helping others recover, perform, and reach their goals.

Marco, originally from Los Angeles, California, developed a love for sports at a young age and excelled in basketball, soccer, swimming, and water polo. However, multiple injuries ended his basketball career, leading him to discover a passion for physical therapy.
Marco earned a Bachelor’s degree in Human Biology with a focus on Applied Physiology from USC, where he worked as a Student Athletic Trainer and Physical Therapy Aide for the basketball, football, and volleyball teams.
After graduating from USC’s Doctorate of Physical Therapy program in 2017, Marco moved to Hermosa Beach and began his career in private practice. His own ACL surgery in December 2017 sparked a strong interest in ACL rehabilitation.
Outside of work, Marco enjoys staying active through sports and workouts and is a big fan of the Trojans, Lakers, Dodgers, and Rams.
His personal and professional experiences continue to inspire his dedication to helping others recover and reach their physical goals.
![]()
Oliver PopeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I sought treatment for a knee injury sustained while training for the Boston Marathon. Dr. Lopez quickly and effectively diagnosed my injury and set out a path forward to help mitigate. Thanks to him, I was able to achieve a bucket list goal of running the Boston Marathon with the added benefit of not embarrassing myself in front of my entire family that had traveled to be there! Thanks, Dr. Lopez!![]()
Jeb BartolomeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I came to The Basketball Doctors: Physical Therapy after tearing my ACL and meniscus, and choosing them was one of the best decisions I made during my recovery. What really set them apart was how basketball-focused and personalized their rehab approach was. From day one, everything felt intentional and tailored to my goals not just getting “better,” but getting back to playing basketball at a competitive level. The level of knowledge, customer service, and attention to detail was top-tier. I worked primarily with Dr. Gabe Ignacio, who was incredible throughout the entire process. Sessions were always private 1-on-1, the rehab plan was consistently updated as I progressed, and I received weekly check-ins to make sure everything stayed on track. Communication was excellent, super responsive, and genuinely invested in my recovery. They’re based in Orange County, California, and when I later moved, they even continued to support me remotely, which made a huge difference in staying consistent and confident during my rehab. The biggest result? I’m back playing basketball again at a competitive level something that felt uncertain right after surgery. I’d highly recommend The Basketball Doctors to athletes, active people, weekend warriors, or anyone dealing with a sports-related injury or anyone who wants more than a generic rehab experience. If your goal is to truly return to sport, this is the place.![]()
Sophie PyrzTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
5 stars does not even come close to the rating that The Basketball Doctors deserve!! I am a professional rugby player and also a member of the USA Rugby Women’s National Team. I worked specifically with Gabe on a daily basis over three+ years in Orange County, CA. He also assisted me remotely when I was overseas and dealing with an injury. As a rugby player, I experienced many injuries during my time with Gabe as my physiotherapist. He helped me through many short term issues, often times spotting issues and treating them before they could become chronic or keep me out longer term. He also supported me through some more major injuries such as a high ankle sprain, a 2nd degree AC joint injury, and a tear to my quad tendon. Gabe would take all of my injuries with the same seriousness and care, no matter what the issue was. He is so incredibly knowledgeable and empathetic. You can tell how much he cares, which really helped me to develop an amazing working relationship where I could trust him to help decide what was best for me. The hands- on treatment combined with physical progression plans that Gabe created were always extremely successful in getting me back on the pitch. He always provided the best balance of challenge and success in his prescription. His hands on treatment is the best in the business. I returned from each injury, stronger and with no residual aches or pains. If I could pack Gabe up and bring him to every rugby tour, I absolutely would. I cannot recommend him enough to anyone. If you are an athlete, weekend warrior, or active person experiencing any pain or discomfort - Gabe and The Basketball Doctors are the best around!![]()
Guido JimenezTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Dr. Marco Lopez knows his stuff. Worked together on remote training for my knees related to patella femoral syndrome and tendinitis. Detailed instructions provides guidance to do exercises correctly and was helpful all the steps thru the way to minimize pain and be able to compete in soccer again. Highly recommend and I send my family to see Marco!![]()
Diamond CrawfordTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I had an incredible experience with The Basketball Doctors in Hermosa Beach during my ACL recovery. When I first came in, I was behind in my rehab and genuinely concerned I might need a manipulation under anesthesia (MUA) due to limited progress. From day one, the team was knowledgeable, supportive, and fully committed to helping me turn things around. They created a structured, personalized plan that focused not only on my knee but also on restoring strength, mobility, and confidence in my movement. Their expertise in sports rehab — especially for athletes — is unmatched. Each session pushed me forward, and I saw noticeable improvement week after week. Thanks to The Basketball Doctors, I was able to avoid a MUA and transition through recovery much quicker than expected. I’m now back to training and feeling stronger than ever. If you're recovering from an ACL injury or any orthopedic setback, I highly recommend The Basketball Doctors. Their professionalism, passion, and results-driven approach make all the difference.![]()
Wahab OlusesiTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
A top notch physical therapist.. The best I’ve seen in the states![]()
Michael BolanowskiTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Marco at The Basketball Doctors is one of the best in the game. If you are an athlete that needs to rehab back from injury or need a rock solid pre-hab strength plan, he is your guy. He goes above and beyond to work with clients to get them to be their best versions on the court/field. If you are dealing with Osgood Schlatter pain, RUN to see him. He is ELITE. Marco has treated both my sons and it’s the best money I have ever spent. I have him on speed dial just in case and you should too.![]()
Bella RecaldeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Marco was by far my favorite and the best PT. I’ve had. He rehabbed my first ACL tear and got me back to health quicker than expected.![]()
L FridTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My son overcame several injuries while playing high school basketball, and planned to continue playing in college. In his off season we looked for someone that could help him build strength and athleticism safely, while also helping him rehab his injuries. While I knew many local athletic trainers, physical therapists, strength coaches, and basketball trainers what I was looking for was some combination of all of the above. I had seen Basketball Doctors on social media, but we are in a different state so I wasn’t sure if they could help. From my first conversation with Marco, I knew he was exactly what I was looking for! Through phone calls and videos, Marco was able to help my son work through any remaining issues from injury as well as improve his athleticism to excel in his sport. My son worked with Marco all spring and summer and went on to have a successful, injury-free college basketball season. With sports injuries being so common, it is good to know that whatever may happen in the future- whether it be knee, shoulder, ankle- we have someone knowledgeable that can guide us through it. I am incredibly happy that I chose to work with the Basketball Doctors and would highly recommend them to any athlete, whether they are working through injuries or working to stay injury-free.![]()
peter zunigaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I recently suffered a bad lower back strain that left me unable to walk or do any activities without a degree of pain/discomfort. Marco did a great job educating me on exercises and remedies to alleviate the pain and provided some rehabilitation stretching techniques to promote quick recovery. I wholeheartedly recommend Marco and the Basketball Doctors for anyone who had an injury for professional rehabilitation care!Google rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 60 reviews
Meet with your Physical Therapist (in-person or virtual) to get to the root of the problem and understand your goals.
Your Physical Therapist builds a customized rehab and performance plan specific to your injury, position, and return-to-sport goals — no templates, no guesswork.
We monitor your workouts, adjust your program weekly, and guide your return-to-play—from first steps to full-game intensity.
We ensure you regain explosiveness, confidence, and durability.

Are you facing persistent knee pain, especially below your knee, after activities like running, jumping, or playing basketball? If so, you may be dealing with

Dealing with persistent pain in the front of your knee? You might be grappling with patellofemoral pain syndrome. In this blog post, we’ll explore a

For basketball players experiencing persistent pain at the front of the knee, relief may be closer than you think. In this blog post,

Are you a passionate hooper facing knee discomfort during activities like squatting, using stairs, or sitting for extended periods? Patellofemoral pain syndrome might
