Jazz forward Carlos Boozer has been granted permission to report late to the official start of the 2007-08 season due to family medical needs.  Whether Boozer will be able to join the team at training camp in Boise, Idaho, is still uncertain. 

“My son is recovering from a bone marrow transplant in Miami.  Because of his procedure, my return to training camp in Boise, Idaho, is uncertain.  As soon as my son is home from the hospital and stable, I will join my teammates.  Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated by me and my family during this time.  We have been in contact with the Jazz organization, including Mr. Miller, Kevin O’Connor, and Coach Sloan, and all of my teammates, and everyone has been incredibly supportive of my family during these days.  We want everyone to know how grateful we are for that.”

The Jazz begin the season with media day on October 1 in Salt Lake City and then travel to Boise for training camp through Saturday, October 6.

“Carlos has been working out all summer in Miami and coordinating efforts with Gary Briggs, our team trainer, and Mark McKown, our strength and conditioning coach.  We are confident that when he rejoins the team he will be ready to compete,” said Jazz General Manager, Kevin O’Connor.  “Carlos needs to be with his family right now and we fully support his decision.”

Because we would like to respect Carlos’ privacy, the Jazz and Carlos will have no further comment at this time.