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Ibaka could play Game 3
Alan is an expert gambling writer who works as one of the chief editors for Basketball Insiders. He has been covering online gambling and sports betting for over 8 years, having written for the likes of Sportlens, Compare.bet, The Sports Daily, 90min, and TopRatedCasinos.co.uk. His particular specialisms include US online casinos and gambling regulations, and soccer and basketball betting. Based in London, Alan holds an MA in English Literature and is a passionate supporter of Chelsea FC.
All posts by Alan DraperUpdated1 hour ago on April 20, 2024
Injured Oklahoma City Thunder forward Serge Ibaka might play Sunday night in Game 3 of the Western Conference finals against the San Antonio Spurs.
Ibaka, who missed the first two games of the series with a left calf strain, participated in Sunday morning’s shootaround.
The Thunder had said Ibaka would likely miss the rest of the playoffs, but announced Friday he was making significant progress.
Ibaka said Sunday morning was happy to be back on the court practicing and hopes he can play.
“It feels great,” he said. “The first time the doctors told me I would not be able to play in the playoffs, I cried. It was something that I wasn’t really looking for. I always enjoy playing with my teammates and playing basketball.”
Ibaka said the pain has decreased in the past three days and that he will decide later in the day if he can play.
“I tried to get my mind ready, and if I’m going to feel better later, I’m going to go,” he said.
Ibaka is averaging 12.2 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.2 blocked shots in 13 postseason games. He also led the NBA in blocks during the regular season for the fourth straight season with 219 and averaged a career-high 15.1 points and 8.8 rebounds.
The Thunder need Ibaka as San Antonio leads the best-of-seven series 2-0.
