Franz Wagner suffers ankle injury in FIBA World Cup opener vs. Japan / News - Basketnews.com

Ankle sprain forces Franz Wagner to exit the FIBA World Cup opener against Japan. He will undergo an MRI to unveil the extent of the injury.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Orlando Magic wing Franz Wagner contributed 10 points to Germany's winning effort in the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 opener against Japan. Unfortunately, his performance was cut short due to an ankle roll.

Player of the Game EFF 31 Moritz Wagner Points 25 Accuracy 10-14 Rebounds 9 Assists 1

The injury occurred with a little over five minutes left in the game, as Germany held a commanding 75-53 lead. After a minor collision in mid-air with a Japanese player, the 21-year-old Wagner landed awkwardly on his left ankle.

He grabbed his ankle immediately after the incident and was evidently in pain. Wagner then hobbled off the court, unable to continue.

"It looks like a slightly sprained ankle," Germany's head coach Gordon Herbert said in the post-game conference. "We'll know more after the MRI."

Prior to the injury, Wagner not only scored 10 points but also secured 6 rebounds and dished out 5 assists. Germany won confidently against host Japan, 81-63.

As Wagner approaches his 22nd birthday on Sunday, Germany is slated to face Australia. However, his availability for the upcoming match remains uncertain.

German Basketball Federation released an update on Saturday morning:

"The medical staff is intensively caring for Franz Wagner. An exact diagnosis is not yet possible due to the pending imaging. His status is day-to-day."

Game highlights:

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