Shane Larkin carries an injury, will travel to Istanbul / News - Basketnews.com

Shane Larkin has a problem with his shooting hand and will fly to Istanbul to perform an MRI.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Shane Larkin scored just 3 points, making just one shot out of six in the game against Spain today.

Player of the Game EFF 17 Willy Hernangomez Points 15 Accuracy 6-9 Rebounds 7 Assists 0

Head coach Ergin Ataman revealed that the problem lies deeper.

"Shane has a big problem with his fingers. Now, he will immediately fly with a private jet to Istanbul to perform an MRI," Ataman said during the post-game press conference. "Doctor will check his situation tomorrow."

"Psychologically, he's not ready. His mind is in his hands, his shooting hand," the coach explained. "He tried to do it, he pushed himself, I cannot say anything about a player like this but with this injury, we don't have any backup players, any contribution."

With Larkin as the main point guard of the team, losing him would certainly tarnish Turkey's chances in the playoffs.

"Shane is a great player, he's shown it for the last 4 years, but with this injury, he's mentally thinking about his situation," Ataman continued. "I hope it's nothing serious but he has a problem with his fingers. The team will fly to Berlin tonight, he will fly to Istanbul."

Larkin hasn't been his usual self throughout EuroBasket 2022. He's been averaging 9.2 points on just 33% shooting. He shot just one shot in the game against Belgium, six against Spain, and seven against Montenegro, while he usually averaged double digits in the EuroLeague.

Turkey's Round of 16 opponent is not clear yet. Ataman's squad will know the team they will have to battle against in the playoffs only after the last game between Germany and Hungary today.

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