It was decided last week Napier would undergo surgery for the stress fracture. On Friday screws were inserted to help his right foot heal. He will be in a cast and boot for several weeks, but is expected to be ready for the start of practices on October 13.
"At least now I know I'm going to be OK. That's the good thing," said Napier.
Napier began to have problems with his foot at South Florida on December 28. On February 20, he was held out of the starting line up with foot trouble, but came off the bench, eventually hitting a game winning shot in overtime.
He was to make Puerto Rico's Olympic basketball team, but his foot was still bothering him, so Napier did not play. The plan to treat Napier was conservative, including rest and rehab. He was in a walking boot most of the summer and tried to play some pick-up games this month.
But last week Napier was seen limping around Gampel Pavilion and he went to a podiatrist. The surgery was performed at the UCONN Health Center and stabilized his fifth metatarsal. Knowing the location, it may have been a Jones fracture he was suffering from.
On Monday Napier watched pick-up action from the sidelines, using a crutch. After the games, he dropped his crutch and sank three free throws.
"It felt weird," he said. "They say the first stage of recovery is always the hardest."
If you are a basketball player with a foot injury, call our Newington, Kensington, or Middletown office to make an appointment.
Craig M. Kaufman, DPM
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Sports Podiatrist in CT
Podiatrist in Newington, Kensington, and Middletown, CT
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