NBA Finals 2014: Tony Parker says he’ll play in Game 1 against Heat
By Bryan Rose
A few days ago, Tony Parker who’s been nursing a plethora of injuries in recent weeks, stated he ‘hoped’ he’d be ready to go in Game 1 of the 2014 NBA Finals against the Miami Heat.
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Understandably there was some mild concern from San Antonio Spurs fans worried that Parker wouldn’t be available, but worry no longer as the All-Star informed a French radio station (via the San Antonio Express) that he’ll play when the two teams take the court on Thursday night.
“I twisted my ankle in Game 4 of the first round against Dallas. I continued to play with the pain and I again twisted the ankle in Game 4 of the conference finals against Oklahoma City. I gritted my teeth; I did not mean to abandon my teammates. But the pain was too strong in the sixth game. I could not really play anymore.
Today, I spend my days in treatment. But the good news is that I will play the first game of the Finals on Thursday against the Heat. I may not be 100% but I’ll be there.”
The fact that he may not be himself has to be a concern for Spurs fans, but Parker at a reduced rate is still better than other options for San Antonio so they’ll just need to hope the injuries don’t hamper the point guard too bad.
Thankfully Parker should be paired defensively against Norris Cole and Mario Chalmers, so he shouldn’t have to run around on defense too much, saving his energy and sore ankle as opposed to covering a Russell Westbrook who is all over the floor.