During group play at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, Serbian forward Borisa Simanic was elbowed by South Sudan’s Nuni Omot. Simanic immediately went to the floor in pain. He was taken to the hospital and had emergency surgery that night.
We now know that Simanic had to have a kidney removed in a second operation, due to complications from the first surgery. Simanic is expected to remain in Manila for some time to recuperate.
Nuni Omot apologized for the incident, saying it was accidental.
“My apologies, I didn’t mean to make no type of a dirty play. I hope you have a speedy recovery. I pray for you, you’ll be in my prayers,” Omot said. “I’m not a dirty player, I’ve never been a dirty player. From the bottom of my heart, I sincerely apologize to everyone that’s watching and to the player especially.”
