When San Antonio Spurs NBA MVP candidate Tony Parker went down with a left ankle injury, the first thought that comes to mind for fans is the worst.
The possibility of losing Parker for the rest of the season was bad, but the silver and black faithful's hearts sank at the thought of having no hope for a championship this season.
Fast forward to more than a week later and we've already heard from the Frenchman about his progress. On his radio show, "The Tony Parker Show," Parker gives us the update Spurs fans have been longing for (via French site RMC Sport).
"I started to use it (ankle) Sunday. It's going much better. I run all right at the moment, but I do not change direction. I hope to return soon. I no longer use crutches. I want to go back to 100%. It will be just before the playoffs."
With just a few days removed from the injury, it's a good assurance Parker's injury isn't as bad as some may have thought. The Spurs may be playing it safe for the playoffs and it's good news that Parker is doing some kind of cardio to strengthen it and not be completely out of shape once the playoffs come around.
The Spurs will only go as far as Parker takes them since they're his team. The team seems to be doing ok without him recently, but Parker can't come back soon enough. He knows the Spurs need him at 100% for when the real season starts come playoff time and it seems he's motivated to still be "the guy" on his team.