LOS ANGELES, United States (AFP) — Miami Heat star Chris Bosh has declared himself ready to return for the new season as he battles back from an extended layoff following treatment for blood clots.
The 11-time All-Star hasn’t played since February 9 after the emergence of blood clots in his calf.
He also missed the second half of the 2014-15 season due to blood clots, with one moving to his lung and forcing him into an extended hospital stay.
However the 32-year-old told the Open Run podcast that he is gearing up for the new season, starting at Miami’s training camp in the Bahamas next week.
“I’m ready to play. We’ve been talking about it for a long time. We released the statement back in May, saying as soon as I’m ready to play, as soon as possible, we’ll play, and I’m ready,” Bosh said.
“I’ve done all my work. I’ve done what I need to do, working with the doctors.”
Bosh acknowledged however that doctors for the Heat — who have long been at loggerheads with the player over his readiness — had not yet cleared him to play.
“I’ve made it clear from the jump if I’m ready to play I want to play,” Bosh said. “I’ll be there (at camp). Will I be cleared? I don’t know. That’s out of my hands. I will play basketball in the NBA. I’m confident.”
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