Suns Star Center Stoudemire Poked In Eye; Needs Goggles

October 3, 2008 10:08 p.m. EST

Phoenix, AZ (AHN) - Phoenix Suns star center Amare Stoudemire was poked in the eye during practice Wednesday, tearing his iris and perhaps forcing him to wear protective goggles upon his return.

Stoudemire showed up to Suns' shoot around on Friday morning wearing sunglasses after he awoke Thursday with swelling and blurred vision.

He missed the entire 2005-06 NBA season after knee surgery but has averaged 22.5 points and 9.6 rebounds since returning.

An examination showed that there is no damage to the retina or cornea, making it unlikely for this injury to be career-threatening.

The iris is the colored part of the eye in between the lens and sclera, or white part of the eye.

Stoudemire will return to the court Sunday likely wearing protective goggles, and may have to don protective eyewear for the rest of his career