NBA: Timberwolves’ Roy still seeking NBA return

Brandon Roy. AFP FILE PHOTO

MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota– Minnesota Timberwolves guard Brandon Roy said Saturday he’s determined to pursue his return to the NBA, despite a setback in his recovery from knee surgery.

“Last week while practicing, I suffered a setback in my recovery. I’ve felt better since the recent surgery, but I am not all the way better,” Roy said in a statement.

“I have decided to explore additional treatment options and an extensive rehabilitation plan. My goal has been, and continues to be, to return to the basketball court as healthy as possible in order to help our team.”

Roy, the NBA’s rookie of the year in 2007, has long been plagued by knee troubles.

He retired briefly following the 2010-11 season and in November underwent his seventh surgery to treat chronic knee pain.

Reports surfaced Saturday that he was again contemplating retirement, but Roy said he hasn’t given up on his NBA dream, even though he has played just five games this season.

In 326 career games with Portland and Minnesota, Roy has averaged 18.8 points and 4.7 assists.