Kawhi Leonard has withdrawn from Team USA basketball team for the upcoming Olympics in Paris, USA Basketball announced on Wednesday. Leonard, who played only 68 games during the 2023-24 NBA season due to chronic knee soreness and inflammation, had been preparing for the Olympics but ultimately decided to prioritize his health and the upcoming NBA season. In a 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. 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.”
Marc J. Spears reported that Derrick White of the Boston Celtics will replace Leonard on the roster. White’s addition would bring a solid defensive presence and versatility to Team USA as they aim for gold in Paris.
This decision comes after significant surprise that Leonard had initially agreed to join the Team USA squad, given his injury history and recent playoff absences. Stephen A. Smith had previously argued that Leonard was the worst superstar in sports history regarding availability and had called on Clippers owner Steve Ballmer to use his influence to prevent Leonard from playing in the Olympics.
Whether Ballmer’s influence played a role or not, the Clippers’ wish for Leonard to focus on the NBA season has been granted.
Leonard’s withdrawal underscores the delicate balance athletes must maintain between representing their country and ensuring their long-term health and career sustainability. As the Olympics draw near, Team USA will look to Derrick White and other talents to fill the void left by Leonard and strive for success on the international stage.
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