Boomers and NBA centre Aron Baynes has been ruled out of the Olympics after he slipped and fell on the changeroom floor during a game and aggravated a neck injury.
The triple Olympian failed to finish Australia’s recent game against Italy, which the Boomers won to improve their Tokyo record to 2-0.
Team doctor David Hughes explained that Baynes had been hurt on court and later “slipped in the bathroom and suffered further injury”.
“It became apparent to the medical staff that this was a bit more serious than just an average injury and so as a precaution he was taken to hospital and he’s undergoing further tests at the moment,” Hughes said.
Currently playing for Toronto, Baynes has won an NBA title with San Antonio and he has established himself as one of the world’s most physical forwards to be a crucial cog in Australia’s push towards a maiden international medal.
“I am really disappointed that I can’t continue in the Olympics,” Baynes said.
“I along with the rest of the team have been working so hard in our quest for an historic Olympic medal and I am gutted that I can’t complete the journey with the boys’, but I have every confidence that they will get the job done”.
Teammate Patty Mills admitted Baynes’ absence would be a significant hurdle.
“It’s a tough loss for us. His presence on the floor and physical play has been a big part of our identity for so long and that will be missed, but it doesn’t change our focus and how we go about our business and what we have come to achieve,” Mills said.
“We have always spoken about how important each player’s role is, and the impact it can have for the better of our group because of our depth.
“That doesn’t change. We’ve got Baynsey’s back. We’ll cover for him.
“I have every confidence in this playing group and our focus will not waiver as we strive for that Olympic gold medal.”
Australia play a final pool game against Germany on Saturday with Jock Landale, Duop Reath and Nick Kay set to take the extra front-court load in Baynes’ absence.
AAP
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