Alen Smailagic reveals he didn't listen to doctor's advice after his injury / News - Basketnews.com

Alen Smailagic says he didn't listen to medical staff recommendations to rest after suffering a finger injury.

Credit: Nikola Krstic/MB Media/Getty Images Credit Nikola Krstic/MB Media/Getty Images

Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade forward Alen Smailagic returned to the court way sooner than expected. As he says, it's because of his desire to play.

Alen Smailagic

MIN:5.36PTS:5 (72.22%)REB:1.4As:0.2ST:0.2BL:0.4TO:0.4GM:5ProfileEuroLeague2022/2023

On November 23, Partizan announced that due to the torn tendon in his fourth finger of the right hand, Smailagic is expected to miss six weeks of action.

However, Smailagic played in the Belgrade derby against Crvena Zvezda on November 29, and after taking a short break, the 22-year-old took part in another Belgrade derby. This time on December 8 in the EuroLeague.

He also played against LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne (December 13) and Anadolu Efes Istanbul (December 16).

"When I got injured, it was hard for me," Smailagic told Bojan Brezovac from Mozzart Sport. "I worked really hard all summer to get to the shape I wanted for the upcoming season. I still didn't reach it."

"After all, it shows on the field and in minutes, but I'm getting there. I just hope that there will be no more injuries," added Partizan forward.

Smailagic also revealed that he's playing despite medical staff recommendations to sit out.

"When I suffered a finger injury, everyone told me I should take a break, all the doctors. However, during those conversations, I openly said I want to take responsibility because I could no longer sit on the sidelines and watch games as a fan. I'm part of the team and want to feel that way while I'm here," Smailagic argued.

This season Smailagic averages 5.0 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 4.4 PIR in 5 EuroLeague games.

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