Ausar Thompson exits Pistons vs Spurs game early after suffering right ankle sprain

Detroit Pistons forward Ausar Thompson left Thursday’s game against the San Antonio Spurs with a right ankle sprain and did not return.

According to reports, Thompson suffered the injury early in the first quarter during Detroit’s 121-106 loss, but the extent of the injury was not immediately known.

Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff spoke about Thompson’s importance to the team after the game, saying: "Ausar obviously means a lot to us.”

"What we were able to do defensively, what he does defensively, the impact he has, obviously, you miss. We just had to figure out a way collectively to pick it up”, he said.

The injury happened as Thompson drove toward the basket. With Victor Wembanyama trailing the play and Stephon Castle defending, Thompson planted hard on his right foot and immediately began limping.

He collapsed in pain near the baseline before Detroit’s medical staff assisted him off the court and escorted him to the locker room.

Thompson is in his third NBA season and has been an important part of Detroit’s lineup.