USA Basketball Announcement
USA Basketball announced Wednesday that Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard will no longer be part of the men’s basketball Olympic roster.
Statement from USA Basketball
“Kawhi has been ramping up for the Olympics over the past several weeks and had a few strong practices in Las Vegas,” read a USA Basketball statement. “He felt ready to compete. However, he respects that USA Basketball and the Clippers determined it’s in his best interest to spend the remainder of the summer preparing for the upcoming season rather than participating in the Olympic Games in Paris.”
Injuries and Load Management
Leonard, one of many American basketball stars expected to compete in the Paris Olympics, has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. His playing time has been limited in recent seasons through “load management” to ensure his health for crucial parts of the season.
Recent Knee Injury
Late in the 2023-24 season, Leonard suffered a knee injury, missing multiple games in the Clippers’ playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks.
Replacement and Career Highlights
USA Basketball announced that Boston Celtics point guard Derrick White will replace Leonard on the team.
Leonard’s Career
- Age: 33
- NBA Seasons: 12
- Teams:
- San Antonio Spurs
- Toronto Raptors
- Los Angeles Clippers
- Championships:
- 2014 with San Antonio Spurs
- 2019 with Toronto Raptors
Olympic Participation
The news came shortly after the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee announced Leonard as part of the 592-member US Olympic Team for Paris. This would have been Leonard’s first Olympic Games after being a finalist for the 2016 and 2020 teams.
Summary
Leonard’s withdrawal from the Olympic roster marks a significant change for USA Basketball, highlighting the ongoing challenges of managing athletes’ health and readiness for international competition. Derrick White’s inclusion is a testament to the depth and talent of the US basketball program, ensuring a strong representation at the Paris Olympics.(JiliAsia)
