Mannix: LeBron, Lakers will fall short of postseason

During group play at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, Serbian forward Borisa Simanic was elbowed by South Sudan’s Nuni Omot. Simanic immediately went to the floor in pain. He was taken to the hospital and had emergency surgery that night.

We now know that Simanic had to have a kidney removed in a second operation, due to complications from the first surgery. Simanic is expected to remain in Manila for some time to recuperate.

Nuni Omot apologized for the incident, saying it was accidental.

“My apologies, I didn’t mean to make no type of a dirty play. I hope you have a speedy recovery. I pray for you, you’ll be in my prayers,” Omot said. “I’m not a dirty player, I’ve never been a dirty player. From the bottom of my heart, I sincerely apologize to everyone that’s watching and to the player especially.”

Paul George continues to seek a four-year deal whether from the Los Angeles Clippers or another team he can join as a free agent or via an opt-in-and-trade, sources tell Marc Stein. George turned 34 in May.

The Clippers previously signed Kawhi Leonard to a three-year, $152 million extension, which indicated the preference of the franchise.

Most around the league believe the preference of George is to remain with the Clippers. George is from the Los Angeles area and was traded to the Clippers from the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2019.

George is represented by Aaron Mintz.