FC Porto’s basketball team is grappling with a significant injury crisis, which head coach Fernando Sá cited as a primary factor in their recent 76-82 loss to rivals Sporting. The defeat marked the first “Clássico” of the season, underscoring the challenges facing the team.
Sá directly attributed the outcome to the absence of several key players. Gonçalo Delgado and Tanner Omlid were notably sidelined for the contest.
The team’s woes deepened during the game itself when Miguel Queiroz suffered an injury. Sá noted the injury made the team “feel the impact,” forcing players into unfamiliar positions and contributing to a first half marred by low shooting percentages. Queiroz’s injury appeared to be to the same shoulder he injured last year, with Sá commenting, “It’s certainly not simple.”
Beyond the starting lineup, other players are reportedly pushing through difficulties. Wes Washpun is making “many sacrifices,” while Jonathan Dunn sustained a sprained ankle in a European game. Additionally, Miguel Maria and Marko Filipovity have experienced “concerns,” further limiting the team’s available rotation.
These widespread absences have severely impacted training conditions, which Sá described as “limited.” He emphasized the team’s “very large deficit in players” and the critical need for more athletes to participate in practice sessions.
Despite the recent loss and ongoing struggles, Sá expressed a commitment to perseverance. “We will have patience and continue to work,” he stated, adding hopes for the athletes’ recovery to strengthen the team’s response this year.
FC Porto also awaits the debut of rookie Allen Flanigan, who has yet to play. Sá anticipates Flanigan will bring “quality of training” and “positive things for the game,” highlighting the team’s need for “an injection of youth and spirit.”