By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Crvena Zvezda has been grappling with injuries since the start of the season, and three players were absent in the ABA League Round 8 clash against Mornar in Belgrade: Adam Hanga, Branko Lazic, and Shabazz Napier.
Hanga is dealing with a knee issue, Lazic is recovering from a broken rib, while Napier suffered a broken nose in the EuroLeague win over Fenerbahce and has already missed two matches.
Coach Ioannis Sfairopoulos provided an update on the injuries after the win over Mornar, indicating that Hanga’s injury has become more complicated.
“Hanga went to see a personal doctor to get a new opinion on the knee situation. He received permission from the club. We are in communication with him to assess the situation. We will see when he will return; collectively, we will decide when he will play because he still feels pain in the knee,” said Sfairopoulos.
Napier has resumed training, but it remains non-contact, and it seems he will have to play wearing a protective mask.
“As for Shabazz, a special mask has been made. He has started training without contact, but still has swelling around the nose. We are waiting for the swelling to subside, and only then will we be able to know exactly when he will play.”
Captain Lazic is the closest to returning to the court.
“Branko Lazic has started training but without contact. We still don’t know when he will return. If everything goes as planned, it will be soon, but I cannot say precisely.”
“Crvena Zvezdas is set to face Olimpia Milano in EuroLeague Round 10 at home. The Belgrade side boasts a 3-6 record after nine matches in EuroLeague and dominates the ABA League standings with an impressive 7-1 score.