Kwame Evans Jr. Injury Update: Oregon Forward Cleared to Play vs. Rice After Knee Scare

Oregon Ducks forward Kwame Evans Jr. has been cleared to play against the Rice Owls following a knee injury scare in the season-opening win over Hawaii. The update provides major relief for Oregon fans and head coach Dana Altman after initial concern when Evans was helped off the court during the second half.

The Ducks are now set to face Rice at Matthew Knight Arena with Evans expected to return to the starting lineup. CBS Sports insider Jon Rothstein reported that Evans will be “good to go” for Friday night’s matchup, confirming the forward avoided any serious damage to his left knee.

Key Details on Kwame Evans Jr.’s Injury and Return

In Oregon’s narrow 60–59 win over the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors, Evans exited the game after appearing to injure his knee while contesting a rebound. He was seen clutching his left knee before being escorted to the locker room. The sight initially raised fears of a long-term setback for one of Oregon’s key returning players.

However, following the game, head coach Dana Altman shared a cautiously optimistic assessment during his postgame remarks. “I don’t think it’s too serious,” Altman said. “He was walking around in the locker room.” That early optimism has now been confirmed, with Evans cleared to play in the upcoming contest against Rice.

The Ducks, already without guard Jackson Shelstad—who is sidelined with a broken right hand—will benefit significantly from Evans’ presence. The 6-foot-9 junior adds both defensive versatility and offensive depth, critical for Oregon’s early non-conference stretch. Before exiting the Hawaii game, Evans recorded seven points, three rebounds, three assists, and two steals in limited minutes.

The upcoming matchup against Rice offers Evans a chance to continue his momentum as Oregon builds chemistry with a restructured lineup. The team will look to him to step up as a leader alongside Takai Simpkins, who led the Ducks with 18 points in the opener.

Evans Poised for Breakout Season in Year Three

Now entering his third season with Oregon, Evans is looking to establish himself as a consistent two-way presence. Last season, he averaged 6.1 points and 4.6 rebounds across 35 games, but he started in only three. This year, he opened as a starter and aims to secure a permanent spot in Altman’s rotation.

In a preseason media session, Evans spoke about his offseason focus. “Just refining my game—being more consistent, shooting the ball, and getting stronger,” he said. “It’s about tightening up my game and building confidence.”

His return also boosts Oregon’s depth as the team pushes toward another NCAA Tournament bid. The Ducks’ frontcourt rotation, anchored by Evans, will be key as they navigate a tough early schedule in the Big Ten transition season.

With Evans cleared, Oregon avoids another major setback and gains critical momentum heading into Friday night’s game at home against Rice. The Ducks tip off at 7 p.m. PT at Matthew Knight Arena.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Kwame Evans Jr. injury update?

Evans avoided a serious knee injury and has been cleared to play against Rice, per CBS Sports insider Jon Rothstein.

Q2: When did Kwame Evans Jr. get injured?

He suffered the knee scare in the second half of Oregon’s 60–59 win over Hawaii in the season opener.

Q3: Is Oregon’s Jackson Shelstad still injured?

Yes. Shelstad remains out with a broken right hand but is expected to return by mid-November.

Q4: How did Kwame Evans Jr. perform before the injury?

Before exiting, Evans tallied seven points, three rebounds, three assists, and two steals, showing all-around impact.

Q5: When is Oregon’s next game?

The Oregon Ducks will face the Rice Owls on Friday night at 7 p.m. PT at Matthew Knight Arena.