As Team USA continues its preparation for the Olympics, it has not been at its best due to an injury affecting Kevin Durant.
The two-time Finals MVP missed each of the team’s first three pre-Olympic exhibition games because of a left calf injury he suffered before USA Basketball’s training camp began on July 6.
While Durant’s return was initially unclear, it now appears imminent. Here’s what you need to know as Team USA looks to welcome Durant back into the lineup ahead of the Olympics.
What is Kevin Durant’s injury?
Durant’s injury is a left calf strain.
Calf strains vary in severity and the degree of the strain often determines the timeline for a safe return to action. Team USA initially listed Durant as “day to day” and the expectation that he would return to action would suggest the strain is not serious.
How long will Kevin Durant be out?
Durant returned to Team USA practice on Friday, July 19, as shown in photos shared by the show. Durant could make his exhibition debut on Saturday against South Sudan or against Germany on Monday. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
Prior to training camp, Team USA officials revealed that Durant was experiencing pain prior to participating in last week’s training camp. As USA Basketball’s all-time leading scorer, Durant’s contributions will be needed, especially against some of the world’s top international competition.
Durant sat out exhibition games on July 10, 15 and 17. After games on July 20 and 22, Team USA opens basketball at the Summer Olympics on Sunday, July 28.
Please check back for updates on Durant’s status as they become available.
U.S. Men’s Basketball Schedule
Below is Team USA’s schedule for the pre-Olympic exhibition games and the Olympic basketball tournament. Team USA is one of 12 men’s teams that will compete in the Olympic tournament.
Pre-Olympic Exhibition Games
| Date | Game/Result | Time (ET) | television channel |
| July 10th | United States 86, Canada 72 | — | — |
| July 15th | United States 98, Australia 92 | — | — |
| July 17th | USA 105, Serbia 79 | — | — |
| July 20th | United States vs South Sudan | 3 pm | FOX |
| July 22 | United States vs Germany | 3 pm | FOX |
Olympic Basketball Games Schedule
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | Television channel |
| 28 of July | United States vs Serbia | 11:15 am | NBC |
| July 31st | United States vs South Sudan | 3 pm | NBC |
| August 3rd | United States vs Puerto Rico | 11:15 am | NBC |
| 6th August | Men’s basketball quarterfinals | Determined | |
| August 8th | Men’s basketball semi-finals | Determined | |
| August 10th | Men’s Basketball Gold Medal Match | Determined | |
| August 10th | Men’s Basketball Bronze Medal Match | Determined |
