Sixers News: Big Man Filip Petrusev Suffered a Setback

Before the Philadelphia 76ers get a better look at their former second-round selection, Filip Petrusev, the former Gonzaga standout will continue getting prepared for the 2023-2024 NBA season by competing in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Representing Serbia, Petrusev has been a participant in the team’s preliminary round of the tournament, which kicked off recently. Unfortunately, the Sixers’ big man is dealing with a setback already this summer.

According to EuroHoops.net, Petrusev picked up an injury on his right ankle and was ruled out for the remainder of Group B’s Gameday 1 contest. Although Petrusev initially attempted to push through the pain, it wouldn’t be long before he was taken off the court and ruled out by the medical staff.

When Petrusev left the game, he had eight points and two rebounds in under six minutes. Serbia went on to defeat China without Petrusev.

It’s unclear just how severe Petrusev’s recent setback is, but the fact that he was able to play a bit after the injury proves it could just be a minor tweak.

Although the Sixers loaded up with depth at the center position this offseason, they’ve already seen one of their players go down. Montrezl Harrell, who signed on for another season with the 76ers, suffered a knee injury, which led to surgery this week.

Now, Philadelphia will have its eyes on Petrusev, who will join the team for the first time since getting drafted in 2021. When Petrusev wrapped up a stint at Gonzaga, he became one of two centers the Sixers would draft, getting the call before Charles Bassey. While Petrusev didn’t receive his wish to join the 76ers right away, the team will allow the Serbian guard to battle for minutes behind Joel Embiid this year.