Pacers' Oladipo to sit out on restart of season

Indiana Pacers will finish this season without Victor Oladipo after two-time All-Star decided to sit out because of risk of re-injuring his right knee.

Earlier this week, Oladipo told reporters he was still debating wher to join his teammates in Orlando.

"We totally respect and understand Victor's decision to t play in restart of NBA's season," Pacers president of basketball operations Kevin Pritchard said Friday in a statement. 

" first priority for our players is, and always will be, ir health, wher that be physical or mental health. Victor has looked great in workouts, but timing of restart and lack of 5-on-5 activity makes it difficult to for him to commit to playing at high level he expects with regards to furr injury." 

On Wednesday, coach Nate McMillan said he anticipated having Oladipo in NBA's "bubble," working out with his teammates and a final decision would be made at a later date.

But Oladipo didn't wait that long.

After spending almost a full year rehabbing his right quadriceps tendon, guard returned to court Jan. 29.

Oladipo played in 13 games before season was suspended by COVID-19 pandemic. He was averaging 13.8 points, 3.2 rebounds and 3.0 assists while shooting 39.1%, and appeared to be rounding into form.

His contract expires after next season.

"His future health is . 1 priority and we look forward to having him back at full strength for 2020-21 season," Pritchard said. 

"This is t a unique situation for our team, playing without key players like Victor and Jeremy Lamb. This team has shown great resolve in responding to adversity and we fully expect this will be different. We remain excited about what y can accomplish in Orlando." 

Im credits: AP