Paul George of the Indiana Pacers broke his leg in a USA Basketball scrimmage Friday night, likely sidelining him for all of next season if not his career.
The 24-year-old star was pursuing James Harden in transition defense, then landed awkwardly against the stanchion supporting the rim and backboard.
He stayed down, and a replay on ESPN clearly showed his leg fracturing (the video, obviously, is graphic in nature and may not be suitable for all):
The Indianapolis Star says George suffered a compound fracture of his right leg.
After George was taken off the court in a stretcher to a standing ovation, Team USA Coach Mike Krzyzewski led the players to mid-court in unison.
He informed the crowd they were calling off the remainder of the scrimmage, while George was taken to the Hospital for Special Surgery in Las Vegas.
George tweeted before going into surgery last night, "Thanks everybody for the love and support... I'll be ok and be back better than ever!!! Love y'all!!"
Early reports indicate the surgery went well, and that George, who averaged 21.7 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.5 assists last season, may play again.
He is still likely out for the entirety of the 2014-15 NBA season, however.
The NBA commissioner, Adam Silver, released the following statement:
"It was difficult to watch the injury that Paul George sustained tonight while representing his country. The thoughts and prayers of all of us at the NBA are with Paul and his family."
Pacers President of Basketball Operations Larry Bird said last night:
"We are aware of the injury sustained by Paul George in Friday's Team USA game ... and we are obviously greatly concerned. At this time our thoughts and prayers are with Paul."
As are ours, as we wish the baller a speedy return to the court.
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