Phil Jasner of the Philadelphia Daily News reports that the Philadelphia 76ers have asked Andres Nocioni, acquired from the Sacramento Kings in June, not to play in the FIBA World Championships, which start this weekend.
Sixers president Rod Thorn confirmed the news last night after Dr. Jack McPhilemy, team orthopedist and medical director, viewed Nocioni's most recent MRI report.
"Dr. McPhilemy didn't like what he saw, and felt Andres should not play or put a lot of impact on the ankle," Thorn said. "Andres wants to play and feels very close to his country, but, in this case, it's just not prudent for him to play."
As Jasner notes, Nocioni initially injured his left ankle on July 31st. Clearly, the Sixers want him fully healthy for the season, which starts in October.