Kyrie Irving. AFP
LAS Vegas, Nevada – Reigning NBA rookie of the year Kyrie Irving broke his right hand Saturday while practicing with the Cleveland Cavaliers’ summer league squad.
Irving, the first overall draft pick in 2011, fractured his hand after slapping a wall at the training facility. Irving was upset because he had just turned the ball over.
The 20-year-old was taken to hospital where X-rays revealed the break. Irving is expected to travel back to Cleveland where he will be re-evaluated by team doctors.
In 51 games last season, Irving averaged 18.5 points and 5.4 assists and won the league’s Rookie of the Year trophy.
He recently took part in scrimmages in Las Vegas against the 2012 USA Olympic men’s basketball team.
The Cavaliers are hoping he will be ready in time for training camp.