Hardaway has torn ligaments in right thumb

[David]

Friday, January 10, 2003
Hardaway has torn ligaments in right thumb

PHOENIX -- Phoenix Suns guard Penny Hardaway, who has played a key role in the team's resurgence this season, has torn ligaments in his right thumb and will be out six to eight weeks.

The Suns made the announcement Friday before their home game against the Memphis Grizzlies. The injury-prone Hardaway had not missed a game this season.

The 6-7 Hardaway is averaging 10.9 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.2 assists in 36 games this season, his fourth with the Suns and 10th in the NBA. He has been an ideal complement to scorers Stephon Marbury and Shawn Marion as the surprising Suns have posted a 22-14 record, good for third in the Pacific Division.

Hardaway received a seven-year, $86 million contract in a sign-and-trade deal with Orlando following the 1998-99 season. This will be the fifth time he has missed at least 20 games in a season, although most of his previous injury problems have been with his knee.

In 549 career games, Hardaway has averaged 17.2 points, 4.8 rebounds and 5.2 assists. He made the All-Star team each year from 1995-98.


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