LeBron injures ankle but returns to game
(Agencies)
Updated: 2005-01-27 10:41

LeBron James returned to the Cleveland Cavaliers' game against Memphis on Wednesday night after injuring his left ankle in the fourth quarter and being helped off the floor.

Cleveland Cavaliers' LeBron James (23) is fouled by Memphis Grizzlies' Jake Tsakalidis from Greece, in the second quarter Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2005, in Cleveland. [AP]

James, who had scored 23 points with 14 assists, was attempting a 3-pointer when he came down on Dahntay Jones' foot and twisted his ankle with 9:23 left. Writhing in pain, he pounded his hand on the floor several times before slinging his protective face mask and headband.

James was aided off the court by teammates, and as he left he complained to the officials that Jones had undercut him. In the third quarter, Jones dunked over James on a breakaway and the pair exchanged glances.

After leaving the floor, James was able to put some pressure on the ankle as he walked to the locker room. He returned with 4:53 remaining.

James is playing with a broken left cheekbone, suffered against Houston on Dec. 29. Coincidentally, James sprained his ankle in this season's 41st game, the same point in the season he sprained his ankle last season.

Earlier in the game, the Cavaliers lost starter Ira Newble with an Achilles injury.

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