UH forward fractures left wrist, may redshirt

By Dayton Morinaga
Advertiser Staff Writer

Paul Jesinskis, a senior forward for the University of Hawai'i men's basketball team, will undergo surgery on a fractured left wrist today, and may redshirt this season.

Jesinskis said he was told by doctors that it would take at least four weeks for the wrist to heal after the surgery.

"Redshirting is definitely an option," he said. "I would hate to sit out all that time and then basically have to start all over once I come back."

Jesinskis said he injured the wrist while bracing his fall during a practice session three weeks ago. He has practiced with the injury ever since, and decided to have it examined over the weekend because "it was always sore; it never healed," he said.

A temporary cast was placed on his wrist on Saturday. Jesinskis, who is 6 feet 8 and 230 pounds, was not in uniform during UH's 73-72 exhibition loss to EA Sports West All-Stars on Sunday.

Jesinskis is originally from South Africa, and transferred to UH from Skyline College (Calif.) last season. He saw limited action for the 'Bows as a junior, averaging just 1.3 points and 1.2 rebounds.

This season, however, his role was expected to increase as a key reserve at all three frontcourt positions.

If he does redshirt, Jesinskis would be the second forward lost for the season. Dane Dmitrovic, a 6-10 freshman, quit last month.

The regular-season home opener for the 'Bows is scheduled for Friday against Arkansas-Little Rock.