Team doctors have cleared San Antonio Spurs veteran playmaker Tony Parker to participate in the team’s training camp, just four months after he suffered a torn quadriceps tendon in May. In an interview with Marc J. Spears of The Undefeated, Parker said that he underwent a MRI Friday and the Spurs doctors were satisfied with what they saw. According to Parker, the doctors said his recovery was very good, prompting them to clear him for training camp.
Parker said he needs another two months to get himself into playing shape and strengthen his legs for the upcoming season.
The pace of Parker’s recovery is remarkable, since he was expected to be sidelined until January. The 35-year-old Parker suffered the injury in Game 2 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Houston Rockets. Initially, it was thought that Parker’s injury might force him to retire. However, the point guard said retirement was far from his mind.
Parker’s estimated timetable to return confirmed shooting guard Danny Green’s statement that the point guard was recovering well from the injury and could make a comeback earlier than expected. Green said Parker was doing his “rehab like a monster” and “like a maniac”, adding that the point guard is mentally focused on getting his body healthy in preparation for the coming season.
Parker frustrated over injury
When the injury happened, Parker said he was frustrated because he was playing well in the playoffs. In eight playoff games last season, Parker averaged 15.9 points, 2.5 rebounds and 3.1 assists. In 63 regular-season games, Parker averaged just 10.1 points, his lowest output since his rookie year, where he averaged 9.2 points during the 2001-02 season.
Before his injury, Parker said his mind was set on playing the Golden State Warriors in the Conference Finals; Parker’s dream matchup happened, but the Warriors cruised to the NBA Finals with ease as Kawhi Leonard injured his ankle in Game 1.
Spurs guided Parker through whole process
Parker said his rehabilitation regiment is highlighted by weightlifting sessions, which aimed to bring his strength back.
The playmaker said he starts his workout at 8 a.m. and he finishes around 1 p.m. The point guard lauded the Spurs for being great through his whole rehabilitation process. He held the first two months of his rehab in San Antonio, and flew to France for the next two months. Despite the distance, the Spurs sent two people to help monitor and guide Parker throughout the process. “I just keep working hard and making progress,” said the veteran. While waiting for Parker’s full recovery, the Spurs might start Dejounte Murray as while Patty Mills will serve as backup. The Spurs will face the Minnesota Timberwolves in their October 18th season opener.
