HOUSTON — Houston Comets star Sheryl Swoopes underwent back surgeryWednesday.

The team’s trainer told Houston television station KRIV that the surgery wassuccessful and Swoopes will be able to play next season. She only played inthree games this past year.

“Sheryl had back surgery with a recovery time of eight to 12 weeks,”trainer Mike Douglas said. “She had a nerve root compression and the surgeryrelieved the compression. She got relief in her right leg instantly.”

“The outlook is positive for Sheryl to make a complete recovery andcontinue playing,” he said.

Head coach Karlene Thompson said she’s thankful Swoopes will be getting somerelief.

“Not only was it painful, it was also frustrating for Sheryl because shewanted to help the team,” Thompson said.

Swoopes, who has been with the Comets during the franchise’s entire 10-yearhistory, helped lead the team to the WNBA’s first four league championships.