The next phase in Shaquille O'Neal's comeback from an ankle injury will begin Tuesday.

O'Neal said before Saturday's game against the Nuggets that he will attempt to practice with the team Tuesday in San Antonio and evaluate his status after that.

''The true test will always be the day after that,'' O'Neal said. ``So I'll wait until Tuesday and see what happens."

O'Neal rated himself at about 85 percent while running straight but figures Tuesday's practice will give him a better idea of his overall percentage.

''I have orders from the powers not to come back until I'm 100 percent,'' he said.