Dux in 'very serious' condition

Dux has been unconscious in hospital since the crash

Guildford Heat officials have been advised that the injuries suffered by American point guard Brian Dux may lead to him suffering permanent disability.

Dux, 26, has been in a coma in Frimley Park Hospital since crashing his car in the early hours of Saturday morning.

"His brain has suffered significant trauma," said Heat coach Paul James.

"Doctors have let us know we must prepare for the worst. Brian is a fighter - he never gives up so we know he is fighting now."

Dux's family have flown in from the United States to be with their son in hospital.

"While there still remains a great deal of uncertainty about the extent of Brian's long term injuries, the fact is they are now indeed very serious," added James.

"As one big family we must all face this challenge together in the weeks and months to come."

Guildford took a heavy defeat on Tuesday in their second European match, with the players admitting afterwards they were affected by Dux's condition.

The whole team took to the court against Spain's Joventut Badalona wearing headbands with Dux's number - 6 - written on them.

The club have not commented on reports that Dux lay in his wrecked car for over two hours before paramedics were alerted, but James said it could be a factor.

"Doctors are concerned with the amount of time Brian remained untreated in his car before he was rescued," he said.

"The wait for him to regain consciousness may go on for quite some time."