The Nuggets are still awaiting test results before making an official comment on the prognosis for Nene.
A story posted on Nene's website early today said that the testicular tumor removed Monday was benign. That was later taken off the site, according to The Associated Press. The Nuggets, however, were not ready to confirm that statement.
"I don't think there's any question there's some positive energy, but I'm not going to interpret or analyze until we get all of the information," Nuggets coach George Karl said Thursday morning at the team shootaround. "There's still information to be had."
Asked when he thought he would know for sure, Karl said, "I would think in the near future, by early next week for sure."
A statement posted on the web site nene31.com.br Thursday said, "According to reports presented by doctors, the exams show that the tumor is benign."
Nene, from Brazil, took an indefinite leave of absence Friday.
THE SITUATION ABOUT THREE HOURS EARLIER:
The Denver Nuggets said Thursday they are waiting for the results of further medical tests after doctors removed a testicular tumor from Nene, but the player's Web site said the tumor was benign.
A statement posted on the Web site Thursday said, "According to reports presented by doctors, the exams show that the tumor is benign."
A Nuggets spokesman said the team would have no comment until the results of other tests were available over the next few days.
The statement said more information would be released later Thursday.
Nene, from Brazil, took an indefinite leave of absence Friday. There is no timetable for his return.
Dr. Fernando J. Kim, who performed the surgery at Denver Health Medical Center, said earlier that a "right testicular mass was found incidentally and it was managed surgically."
The tumor was found last week in an exam by team physician Dr. Saurabh Mangalik.
Nene had said the tumor was found at an early stage.
"I want to thank my fans, my teammates, the Nuggets organization and everyone that's been supporting me," he said in a statement released before the tumor was found to be benign. "My victory will represent their victory as well."
