Gregg Popovich: Kyle Kuzma’s ankle injury a ‘huge disappointment’
Gregg Popovich seems truly bummed out about Kyle Kuzma being cut by Team USA due to an ankle injury.
USA Basketball finalized the roster of 12 players that will be part of Team USA competing at the FIBA World Cup next weekend. Kuzma, who had been with USA Basketball in training camp and did not play in an exhibition game against Australia due to his ankle, did not make the cut.
In comments shared by MassLive.com’s John Karalis, Popovich expressed his “disappointment” over Kuzma being hurt.
Pop on Kuzma cont: …"So, hopefully, he’ll heal quickly. But, he was wonderful while he was here, and we do miss him." (2/2)
— John Karalis ???????? (@RedsArmy_John) August 25, 2019
Los Angeles Lakers fans should be somewhat concerned too. While some wondered if the ankle injury was a cover for cutting Kuzma, Popovich saying the injury could hold Kuzma back for the start of the season signifies how real it is.
The 24-year-old was one of the few remaining players on the Lakers after their huge Anthony Davis trade during the summer. He says he is taking on a leadership role with the team, which is full of many new faces. Kuzma averaged 18.7 points and 5.5 rebounds per game last season.
