UPDATE 12 p.m. – OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma City Thunder has some good news for fans, Serge Ibaka is recovering faster and better than doctors expected.
He is now listed as “day-to-day” and there is a possibility he could play in this series.
Oklahoma City Thunder Executive Vice President and General Manager Sam Presti released this statement on Ibaka’s injury:
“The abundance of blood and therefore swelling in Serge’s calf has reduced substantially and unexpectedly, allowing a level of movement and stability not thought possible after the initial diagnosis. Based on both imaging and physical exam, the considerable swelling in the calf indicated the likelihood of a certain degree of injury, and that established the original time frame for recovery.
At present, Serge has yet to complete a full basketball workout, but is walking and doing light basketball drills. With this new information, and in an effort to keep his status current, we are now listing him as day-to-day with the understanding that there is a possibility for him to play in this series.”
Released May 16:
According to Oklahoma City Thunder officials,
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Serge Ibaka underwent an MRI today that confirmed he suffered a left calf injury during the third quarter of last night’s contest against the Los Angeles Clippers, the team announced. Ibaka is expected to miss the remainder of the 2014 postseason.
Ibaka is averaging 12.2 points on 69-of-112 (.616) shooting from the field, 7.3 rebounds and 2.23 blocks in 13 postseason games. During the 2013-14 regular season, Ibaka notched career-highs with 15.1 points and 8.8 rebounds, while leading the league in total blocks for the fourth consecutive season with 219 blocked shots.
“We are obviously disappointed for Serge, as he is a tremendous competitor, and we know how badly he wants to be on the court with his teammates,” said Thunder Executive Vice President and General Manager Sam Presti. “At this point it is important that our team directs its concentration and energy towards preparation and execution for our upcoming series. As with all teams, our group has confronted different challenges. It is our collective experience that we will call on to ensure that we play to our capabilities.”
Original story:
OKLAHOMA – In case you went to bed before it was over, Thunder fans everywhere have something big to celebrate this afternoon.
The Thunder are moving on to the Western Conference Finals!
It was a late one too. The buzzer sounded around 12:30 Friday morning, signaling a Thunder win Game six.
But, not everything about last night’s game was good.
You may have noticed Serge Ibaka wearing a medical boot as he was stepping off the Thunder plane early Friday morning.
Thunder’s forward, Serge Ibaka, suffered a calf injury during the game in the third quarter.
That's troubling about Serge Ibaka's calf injury. It happened when Westbrook picked up his 3rd foul. Serge is most likely done for the night
— Bob Barry, Jr. (@bbjsports) May 16, 2014
Serge had to leave the court with 7:24 remaining on the clock after Chris Paul went in to put up a floater.
Thunder’s Ibaka reacted quickly to block the shot, but tangled his legs with Paul – bringing them both to the ground.
At this time the Thunder have not released any information regarding Ibaka’s calf injury.
On Ibaka's injured calf, Brooks said he doesn't know yet and says he will know more Friday. Said Ibaka told him he was uncertain.
— Marc J. Spears (@MarcJSpearsESPN) May 16, 2014
Ibaka has been a major asset for his team this series. In game six, Ibaka scored six points, grabbed two rebounds, and added a block.
Ibaka has averaged 12.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks per game so far this series.
The Oklahoma City Thunder pulled a win against the Clippers in Game six, but the team could face some trouble if Ibaka sits out during the Western Conference Finals.
The team will head to San Antonio on Monday to take on the Spurs for game one of the Western Conference Finals.
Tip-off is set for 8 p.m.
