It has been eventually reported by mercury news that Warriors point guard Stephen Curry will not be playing for TEAM USA in the 2016 Rio Olympics.
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The point guard says injuries picked up in the season contributed to his decision on Monday.
Colangelo said USA Basketball understood but was disappointed not to have Curry join their gold medal defence.
“Since Steph’s recent injuries, I’ve been in contact with him and I was aware that this decision was a strong possibility”, said USA men’s national team managing director Jerry Colangelo. The Warriors now lead the best-of-seven series 2-0 against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
“Obviously we are disappointed that Steph will not be available this summer, but we understand these situations arise and we are fully supportive of his decision”, Colangelo said. Overall, Team USA boasts a 75-1 record under coach Mike Krzyzewski, who is making his Team USA farewell in these Games before giving way to veteran San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich.
Warriors coach Steve Kerr said he wasn’t consulted about Curry’s decision to skip the Games, but was happy to hear what his superstar decided.
Curry is the most entertaining basketball player on planet Earth right now, so of course not seeing him in Rio this summer is a letdown. They’re more or less tied to the desire of several players who sit ahead of Butler on the pecking order of USA Basketball. Curry has already won two FIBA World Cups with his national team in 2010 and 2014, but did not feature at London 2012. Among those expected to comprise the roster are LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Carmelo Anthony and Kawhi Leonard.
And now there’s the added factor that without Curry, Team USA will be missing some of the pizzazz that helps to raise interest, television viewership, and the endorsements that follow.
Veteran Chris Paul has also withdrawn his name from consideration alongside Curry. Wednesday, the Cavs will play their 99th game, dating to the start of the regular season. I think is Curry communicating to the world that this has been a bumpy physical road for him and still is and he’s fighting through it.
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The 28-year-old had spoken of wanting the chance to win Olympic gold, but missed six games in the post-season with a right knee injury.
