Denver Nuggets forward Nene has apologized for putting out a statement claiming a tumor on his testicle was benign before later admitting it had been malignant.
The 25-year-old had surgery on January 14 to remove the tumor. He posted a statement on his web site three days later saying the tumor had been benign, but the Nuggets set the record straight on January 22, revealing the tumor was malignant but saying the cancer had not spread.
“I would like to apologize for the incorrect information that was disclosed,” Nene said in a statement Sunday. “There was no bad-faith or intention to fool anyone upon the announcement of a wrong result for the biopsy - it was a miscommunication within our staff and we were all very upset with what happened.
“But the worst part is over, I am very happy with the result of the exams, happy for feeling better.”
To ensure he remains cancer-free, Nene will have check-ups every six months for 10 years.
He is currently on an indefinite leave of absence, but visited the Nuggets during practice on Thursday.
“It was wonderful to meet my basketball family, my Denver teammates, and I was surprised with the support and the way they welcomed me back,” Nene said. “It is because of emotions like this that I see how difficult it will be to stay away from the courts.
“My mind is there, with the team, but my body needs to rest and to recover. And to know that I am recovering is a big comfort. I had the opportunity to talk with my coach Karl, who also faced very difficult moments and won such battles.”
The 6-11 Nene has appeared in 12 games this season for the Nuggets, averaging 6.4 points and 6.4 rebounds. He missed 22 games after undergoing surgery on his left thumb in early November.
