Tony Parker has Minor Ankle Injury

Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs was recently playing for France in an attempt to qualify his national team for the 2009 Euroleague Championship. During an exhibition game, Parker suffered a bruised thigh and a minor ankle injury. After flying back to San Antonio to get his ankle looked at by doctors in San Antonio, the Spurs confirmed that his ankle injury is minor.

Parker will remain in San Antonio to begin his rehab. He’s expected to return to Europe next week — as long as his rehab goes well.

France’s first qualifying game is August 5th against Italy. Parker has already been ruled out of that contest. On August 8th, France plays Finland and most indications are that Parker won’t play in that game either. If his rehab his going well, Parker’s first game back with his national team will likely be August 14th against Italy.

Last year, Parker had the best season of his NBA career. He averaged 22 points, 6.9 assists and 3.1 rebounds per game in 34.1 minutes. He shot 50.6% from the field and 78.2% from the free throw line. During his eight years with the Spurs, the 27-year-old Parker has won three NBA championships.

Tony Parker - Spurs (Image: Zuma Press)