Markelle Fultz is getting closer to returning to the basketball court.
The 76ers said in a statement that the muscle balance in the rookie's right shoulder has improved and the soreness is dissipating after an examination Sunday by surgeon Ben Kibler at the Shoulder Center of Kentucky in Lexington. Kilber had diagnosed scapular muscle imbalance in Fultz's shoulder in addition to the soreness during his first visit there on Oct. 29.
The first overall pick in June's NBA draft will be re-evaluated in two to three weeks, meaning he will miss at least the next seven games. He has been sidelined since Oct. 25.
But he's now cleared to start progressing toward full basketball activities in addition to continuing his physical therapy.
"I don't know the exact timeframe of that," Brown said of when Fultz will begin five-on-five scrimmages. "But the news is good in relation to the improvement of his shoulder ... Look forward to bring him back into the team and playing basketball again."
What will his initial workload consist of until he participates in five-on-five practices?
Brown said he wasn't sure due to just getting the news that Fultz was cleared.
The coach added that he'll sit down with the team doctors and medical staff.
"They'll map out something so I can better answer that question," Brown said, "because at the moment, I don't know."
The guard's return to action will be determined by how his shoulder responds to the increased training and practices.
Fultz previously visited two Major League Baseball doctors who specialize in shoulder injuries. All three doctors confirmed there was no structural damage in his shoulder.
So far, Fultz has participated in passing, shooting, and dribbling drills. He's looked good and has been pain-free in his drills.
