Serbian loses kidney at FIBA World Cup

The Serbian Basketball Federation (KSS) has announced that one of its players, Boriša Simanić, underwent surgery after sustaining an injury during their victory over South Sudan at the Smart Araneta Coliseum last Aug. 30, 2023.

Borisa Simanic FIBA PHOTO

Forward Borisa Simanic had lost a kidney and had to undergo surgery twice, according to the team doctor, Dragan Radovanović.

“After Simanić was operated on for the first time on the night between August 30 and 31, doctors monitored the postoperative recovery and decided that, due to complications, a new operation was necessary,” the KSS said in a statement on Monday.

“Due to complications on the injured kidney that occurred in the postoperative course, Boriša Simanić was operated on again on September 3,” the KSS quoted Radovanović as saying. “Due to changes in the vitality of the kidney tissue, the entire kidney had to be surgically removed. We expect and wish that after this operation, the postoperative course will go smoothly.”

The KSS also said that Simanić is confined at the Makati Medical Center in Makati City.

Simanić's injury was sustained by a hit by South Sudanese player Nuni Omot at the final minute of their game.

In a statement by the South Sudan Basketball Federation, it read that the incident was “unintentional and unfortunate”.

“I am deeply saddened by the news of Simanić's injuries,” Omot said in the statement. “I understand firsthand the severity of his situation and I am deeply sorry that this happened. No player should have to go through that. I pray for Simanić's recovery and speedy return to the court.”

The South Sudanese side had extended their prayers and best wishes to Simanić.