Nigerian basketballer faces uncertain injury return date

Joy FrancisFebruary 13, 2024

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Nigerian-American basketballer Gabe Vincent will face re-evaluation following the All-Star break, yet the Lakers anticipate he won’t be fit to join the lineup when they resume for the second-half of the NBA season against the Warriors on February 22.

Despite the Lakers’ silence on any potential setbacks in Vincent’s recovery from his late December arthroscopic knee surgery, it’s evident that he’ll require additional time to recover his conditioning and ramp up his participation in workouts, even if he receives clearance for on-court activities post-re-evaluation.

Vincent, who was primed to be a key figure in the Lakers’ roster this season following his lucrative three-year, $33 million offseason deal, has been significantly limited, having only made five appearances thus far in the 2023-24 season.

Los Angeles Lakers in December 2023 announced Vincent’s successful knee surgery, setting an eight-week re-evaluation period.

Vincent’s season has been marred by his struggle with persistent swelling in his left knee, prompting the 27-year-old guard to elect surgery for a long-term solution.

This decision will keep the Nigeria D’Tigers star sidelined at least until the conclusion of the All-Star break.

With LeBron James temporarily shifted to point guard due to his own knee concerns, a competition for bench minutes ensues among players like D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, Jalen Hood-Schifino, and Max Christie in the Lakers’ backcourt.

However, uncertainty looms over the precise timeline for Vincent’s return to the court as he continues his rehabilitation journey.

MORE ABOUT GABE VINCENT

Gabe Vincent, born in Modesto, California, is the son of Franklyn and Cynthia Vincent.

His father hails from Nigeria, while his mother is a native of Connecticut.

Both parents hold doctorates in psychology.

Growing up as the youngest of three brothers, Vincent attended St. Mary’s High School in Stockton.

During his college years, Vincent was a basketballer for the University of California, Santa Barbara, from 2014 to 2018.

Over the course of 113 games with the team, he maintained an average of 12.8 points per game. Following his senior season, Vincent earned recognition by being named to the 2018 All-Big West Second Team, showcasing his talent and contributions to the team throughout his collegiate career. He is now one of Nigeria’s biggest names in basketball.