Former NBA star Allen Iverson plans to have a lesion removed from his right leg in the United States and intends to rejoin his Turkish team in time for the playoffs.

Gary Moore, Iverson's long-time manager, said Iverson told him on Wednesday he doesn't plan to retire because of the painful condition.

Moore said Iverson has a lesion that is pressing up against the bones of his leg and requires surgery in the US.

"It has to be removed and tested to see if it's benign or not," Moore said. "Once that's removed, Allen is going to look to rehabilitate his leg because the doctors tell him he'll be out four to six weeks, He's hoping to be able to play in the playoffs."

Besiktas spokesman Kursat Kaplan said on Wednesday the team would assess Iverson's future after another MRI this week.

Moore had no time-table for Iverson's surgery, only that it was "soon."

"People need to know that Allen is and always has been a fighter," Moore said. "He's got a battle ahead of him."

Moore said Iverson "totally disputes" reports out of Turkey he was set to retire.

The 11-time NBA All-Star has said he's happy with his new career in Turkey, though his start has been mixed since playing his first game in November.

AP

(China Daily 01/14/2011 page24)