Team USA receives a massive boost ahead of their FIBA World Cup showdown with Greece, with injured Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart expected to play.

According to Brian Windhorst of ESPN, Smart has returned to practice and is now expected to suit up for the Stars and Stripes in the second round of the competition.

Smart was sidelined in Team USA's final game against Japan in the preliminary group stage due to a left quad strain.

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USA Basketball faces a daunting task as they play Greece, a team headlined by reigning NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. The Greeks finished second in the first group stage, losing only to Brazil.

Team USA ended the opening round with a perfect 3-0 record, but it was far from easy after Turkey nearly pulled an upset against the reigning world champions.

Gregg Popovich and Co. certainly need Smart as they aim to keep their immaculate record intact. The 25-year-old is one of the team's best defenders, not to mention the leadership he provides.

Smart has career NBA averages of 9.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.6 steals per game. Last season with the Celtics, he put up 8.9 points, 2.9 boards, 4.0 dimes and 1.8 steals while shooting a career-best 42.2 percent from the field and 36.4 percent from the 3-point arc.