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Turiaf ‘feeling fine’ after open-heart surgery

Doctors say forward’s aortic valve functioning properly

SPOKANE, Wash. - Los Angeles Lakers second-round draft pick Ronny Turiaf is “feeling fine,” the former Gonzaga star said Thursday while recovering from heart surgery.

In a statement released from Stanford Hospital & Clinics in Northern California, Turiaf said: “My surgery went well.”

Turiaf underwent surgery Tuesday to repair an enlarged aortic root. Doctors found his aortic valve was functioning properly and did not need replacement.

Turiaf, who plans to recuperate in Spokane after his release from the hospital, thanked people for their support and prayers.

“By the grace of God, I’m doing well,” Turiaf said.

Turiaf, a 6-foot-10 power forward who averaged 15.9 points, 9.5 rebounds and 1.9 blocked shots at Gonzaga, was selected 37th in the draft.

He was diagnosed with an enlarged aortic root during a team physical after the draft.

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