SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) -- Cleveland Cavaliers forward Anderson Varejao will return to his native Brazil next week for medical tests on a right shoulder injury sustained in a World Championship qualifying game.
Varejao dislocated his shoulder in the final minutes of Brazil's 96-94 loss to the United States on Thursday. He said Friday that he would return to Brazil on Monday and then go to Cleveland a week later to see team doctors and get treatment.
"It hurt a lot when my shoulder came out, but it's part of the game," said Varejao, who was dressed in street clothes Friday to watch Brazil play against Panama.
The 22-year-old said he wasn't sure if he had damaged ligaments or if he would need surgery.
Varejao was first looked at Thursday by Cavaliers general manager Danny Ferry, who had initially told The Associated Press that Varejao would travel to Cleveland on Saturday to see team doctors.
Varejao said he was disappointed to miss the rest of the tournament, which runs through Sept. 4.
In his first season with the Cavaliers, the 6-foot-11 Varejao became a fan favorite with Cleveland fans because of his wild, frizzy hair and his recklessness on the floor. He often outhustled or outworked opponents for rebounds and loose balls, diving all over the court.
A second-round draft pick by Orlando in 2004, Varejao was traded to the Cavaliers along with Drew Gooden for Tony Battie and two draft picks last summer. He averaged 4.9 points, 4.8 rebounds and 16 minutes in 54 games.
He spent 11 games on the injured list in February with a high-ankle sprain. He was also was on the injured list in November with a sore knee.
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that sucks.. he is a very good player, will turn into a great shot blocker/rebounder. big loss for our brazilian national team...[/url]
