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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Paul George still hopeful of returning this season

 (Associated Press)

Paul George beat the odds to become an NBA star. He’ll have to do it all over again to play next season.

Two weeks after a gruesome compound fracture of his right leg, George said he remains hopeful that he can make it back onto the court late next season even though it’s a long shot. George called the injury a “freak accident.”

“All I can do at this point is sleep, watch TV and lay down, so it’s tough for me. I’m used to being active, lifting weights, being in the gym,” George said as his mother and father watched his news conference from a few feet away. “At the same time, I want to be part of this team. The last thing I want to do is feel like I’m not part of this team because I’m out. I’m holding out hope, just personally, because I want to be back.”

George has thrived in the underdog role, going from mostly overlooked prep recruit to Fresno State star. The Pacers drafted him No. 10 overall in 2010. After his third season, George was named the NBA’s Most Improved Player. He’s played in the All-Star Game and made the all- defensive team the past two seasons.

George was injured Aug. 1 during a U.S. national team scrimmage in Las Vegas when he his right leg collided with the basketball stanchion, snapping it in two.

“When I looked down and saw bone sticking out, I knew it was bad,” George said. – Associated Press