If the shoe fits: Golden State's Andrew Bogut gets help from a sneaker technician
OAKLAND, Calif. – Injured Golden State Warriors center Andrew Bogut received some potential help Wednesday by way of a sneaker specialist.
Bogut is out indefinitely because of a troublesome left ankle injury that has limited him to just four games this season. In an effort to aid his return, a Nike basketball footwear technician met with Bogut at the team's training facility Wednesday for about 45 minutes to gain information for a custom sneaker that can ease ankle and foot pain, according to sources.
Nike basketball footwear technicians have made custom sneakers in the past for numerous NBA players, including Warriors guard Stephen Curry, who has had lingering ankle issues. Bogut also has the option to go to Nike headquarters in the Portland, Ore., area to get more extensive testing for his specialized shoe.
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Bogut has not returned to practice, but recently told The Courier Mail from his native Australia he expects to return this season at some point. Warriors coach Mark Jackson told Yahoo! Sports recently that he has no clue when Bogut will return. Jackson, however, added that while the return of the 2010 All-NBA third team center would bring a big boost, he believes the Warriors (23-14) will continue to be successful without him.
"He takes care of his rehab with our training staff and doctors and strength and conditions," Jackson said. "When he comes back, he comes back. I don't really look at that. I coach what's in front of me. There is no pressure.
"I say, 'How are you doing? How are you feeling?' We have regular conversation, but I understand Andrew. I understand fighting back from it. I don't think he has to come back and save the day."
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