May 7, 2008

PITTSBURGH - Duquesne University freshman forward Damian Saunders (Waterbury, Conn./Crosby/Notre Dame Prep) - a member of the 2008 Atlantic 10 All-Rookie team - underwent successful surgery to repair a torn ligament in his left ankle on Wednesday.

The surgery was performed by Dr. Darren Frank at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh.

Saunders, whose recovery time will be four to five months, will be immobilized for six weeks before beginning an aggressive rehabilitation program.

"Damian has had chronic ankle sprains throughout his career," said head coach Ron Everhart. "He had at least three this season - including one the day before our Atlantic 10 tournament game - but was able to play through it. Doctors said the surgery went smoothly and they expect a complete recovery. I know Damian will work hard at his rehabilitation and will be ready to go when we start practice."

Saunders averaged 6.5 points and 5.2 rebounds as one of five players to see action in all 30 games in 2007-08. The 6-7 Waterbury, Conn. native became just the fifth player in school history to be named Rookie of the Week more than twice when he earned the honor three times last season. Saunders, whose 1.5 steals per game ranked eighth in the A-10, led the Dukes with 45 steals. The versatile forward was third on the team in blocks with 39 - the second-highest total ever by a DU freshman - and fourth in 3-pointers made with 24.