LAS VEGAS — As Team USA's practice ended, LeBron James reclined on a table with trainers tending to his sprained right ankle.
A horde of television cameramen surrounded James and the trainers before team officials shooed them away.
The Americans described the injury as minor. It occurred yesterday when James landed on Kevin Durant's foot during a closed scrimmage between Team USA and a select squad of young NBA players at Valley High School.
Coach Mike Krzyzewski said he would know more today, after James has had a chance to rest.
"He thinks it's a mild sprain," Krzyzewski said. "Our trainers think it's a mild sprain. So we'll find out tomorrow. But I don't think it's anything serious. Obviously, we'll look and see what happens tomorrow."
Until more is known, James' injury raises questions about whether the forward will be full-speed as the Olympics approach.
The U.S. has already dealt with an injury to another starter, center Dwight Howard, who is returning from a stress fracture to his sternum. And Dwyane Wade, one of the top reserves, is coming back from left knee surgery.
Team officials have been encouraged by Howard and Wade during training camp this week. They seemed equally optimistic about James.
"You never want to see anyone hurt, but he's had this sprain before," managing director Jerry Colangelo said. "We're being told it's a minor deal. Obviously, he's got to take care of it."
