Miami: Indiana Pacers All-Star Paul George had surgery on his broken right leg and is resting comfortably in a hospital, USA Basketball announced.
George is expected to remain at Sunrise Hospital in Las Vegas after having surgery on Friday night to repair a broken tibia and fibula.
George was injured during Team USA’s showcase game Friday night on the campus of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
George was sprinting downcourt early in the fourth quarter to defend a layup attempt by Houston’s James Harden when he landed awkwardly on his right leg, causing his leg to buckle and snap above his ankle.
His recovery time is estimated to be at least 12 months.
“Our first thoughts are with Paul and his family,” Pacers president Larry Bird said in a statement Saturday. “It is way too early to speculate on his return as the No. 1 priority for everyone will be his recovery. Our initial discussions with our doctors and the doctors in Las Vegas have us very optimistic. We are hopeful at some point next week Paul will return to Indianapolis to continue his recovery.
Yesterday was supposed to be a cut-down day for Team USA as the 20-player pool was expected to be reduced to 14 or 15 players, but those plans are on hold after George’s injury.
“Everything’s on hold, and it should be,” Team USA coach Mike Krzyzewski said.
