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Tumor removed, prognosis positive for Nene

Chances are good Nene will make complete recovery

By Chris Tomasson, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published January 16, 2008 at 12:45 a.m.

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It's not out of the question Nuggets forward Nene was saved by a drug test.

A source close to the situation said Tuesday a possible health problem was noticed last week by an administrator during a routine NBA drug test, which led to Nene undergoing surgery Monday for a testicular tumor.

The source said doctors believe there's a strong likelihood Nene has testicular cancer, but, if that's the case, there is great optimism about a full recovery because his condition was detected so early.

The Nuggets announced Tuesday that surgery was successful for removal of the testicular tumor and results of a biopsy to determine the presence of cancer are pending. Nuggets coach George Karl said results will be known within a week.

"Hopefully, he'll be back playing this year," Karl said. "But, if not, he'll be back healthy, period."

Nene, 25, took an indefinite leave of absence from the team Friday. The source said Nene was granted the leave almost immediately after the health concern was spotted during the drug test, and there has been great relief from all concerned about the early detection.

Testicular cancer, the most common cancer among men 20 to 34, is considered one of the most highly treatable forms of cancer. It has a 90 percent success rate and essentially 100 percent if it has not metastasized.

"I thank God that we could detect this at such an early stage," Nene said in a statement released by the team in which he thanked his supporters and said his "victory will represent their victory as well."

While the source said doctors believe more likely than not Nene has testicular cancer, nothing will be known for sure until biopsy results are available.

"A right testicular mass was found incidentally and it was managed surgically," Dr. Fernando J. Kim, the chief of urology at Denver Health Medical Center who performed the surgery, said in a statement released by the Nuggets. "Nene is recovering well and in good condition."

According to the Nuggets, Nene was examined last week by team physician Dr. Saurabh Mangalik and a tumor was discovered. Nene then consulted with Kim, a graduate of Sao Paulo School of Medicine in Nene's native Brazil.

Karl has yet to talk with Nene but has spoken with his personal manager, Alex Santos.

"I heard he was watching the game," Karl said of Nene seeing Monday's game against Charlotte from his hospital room after surgery.

"I don't know how long he watched. but I know he woke up and actually turned on the game and was interactive about the game a little."

Karl said there was a "good possibility" of Nene being released from the hospital Tuesday night, but it couldn't be confirmed if he had been. Many players have left phone messages or text messaged Nene.

"You just want to make sure he does everything he has to do to get well," Nuggets guard Allen Iverson said. "You just continue to pray for him. . . . This whole thing is so much bigger than basketball. This is life. This is a tough time for him and his family. All we can do is to be there to support him and be a phone call away if he needs us."

Before addressing the team Friday about Nene having a serious medical condition, Karl said he talked with captains Iverson, Carmelo Anthony and Marcus Camby.

In the days since Nene was granted his leave of absence, some players have had a good awareness of his condition.

"We knew what was going on, but you definitely try to respect his privacy until he was ready to release that information," forward Linas Kleiza said. "It is a very tough thing to go through."

Athletes who have had testicular cancer and come back to compete include cyclist Lance Armstrong, baseball player John Kruk, golfer Billy Mayfair and skater Scott Hamilton.

While Karl said he has "heard there's a possibility of" Nene playing again this season, he stressed it "would be unfair to the situation to speculate on it."

The source agreed Nene could return this season but said there are many factors involved, including if doctors would want Nene to undergo chemotherapy. When asked if a good-case scenario could be Nene returning in about two months, the source did not rule that out.

"I don't think there's a need to interpret anything until we get all the tests back," said Karl, who has relayed to Nene he wants to provide "some support" and "some hugs."

Karl is doing well after being diagnosed in 2005 with prostate cancer. His son, Lakers rookie guard Coby Karl, had surgeries in 2006 and in 2007 for thyroid cancer.

"I'm not an expert on medical rehabilitation," said Karl, who said Nene has the "best doctors." "My biggest thing is be there, is be strong and try to bring a positive atmosphere."

It's already considered a big positive Nene's tumor was detected so early.

tomassonc@RockyMountainNews.com

Comments

  • January 15, 2008

    10:46 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    kmeissner writes:

    I sincerely wish him the best of health. The Nugs need him in the lineup but some things are more important that basketball. Take all the time you need, Nene! We're rooting for you. Get well soon.

  • January 15, 2008

    11:05 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    dilligaf writes:

    Good Luck Nene. You are in our thoughts & prayers.

  • January 15, 2008

    5:02 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    bjjdenver writes:

    Best wishes to a good guy.

    NOW, I know it is the RMN's responsibility to report news, but why in the Hell can't they honor Nene's wishes and keep it a private matter until he deems himself ready to discuss it? The details of his medical problems are not our business.

    I am only surprised it took this long to break the "news".

  • January 15, 2008

    7:46 p.m.

    Suggest removal

    Stanv writes:

    I appreciate the compassionate response from Coach Karl. May I suggest, however, that the term "totem poll" (ie., totem pole) be eliminated from the reference? I think "putting basketball as a lower priority than his health" might work just fine. A totem pole is a sacred carving among Northwest Coastal tribal citizens and some Alaska Native People. It is inappropriate in this context. We wouldn't want coach Karl to say "putting it at the foot of the crucifix" either, for example.

  • January 16, 2008

    8:33 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    misterbigge writes:

    I love how Nene plays the game but he is turning into one of those injury prone guys like Grant Hill and the Nuggets should try to trade him while they can get value for him.

    Note to Stanv. Stop the sissy attitude about what words can be used by others. Bottom of the totem pole is an excellent reference and is not negative unless the SPEAKER intended it negative. Don't put YOUR interpretation on other peoples words. That is censorship and thought control.

  • January 16, 2008

    11:21 a.m.

    Suggest removal

    Squatch writes:

    I hope the guy makes a full recovery he is a good player when healthy and in shape. Thoughts and prayers to him.