L.A. Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard. Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Kawhi Leonard withdraws from Team USA ahead of Olympics

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Steve DelVecchio | Last updated Jul 10, 2024 11:18 AM ET

Team USA is sending a star-studded roster to Paris for the Olympics this month, but Kawhi Leonard will no longer be a part of it.

USA Basketball announced on Wednesday that Leonard has withdrawn from the team. No specific injury was cited, but the team said in a statement that a decision was made for Leonard to focus on the upcoming NBA season rather than competing in Paris.

An update on Kawhi Leonard from the USA Basketball Men's National Team. pic.twitter.com/84TjYpc90i

— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) July 10, 2024

Leonard has battled chronic knee injuries over the last several seasons. He was out most of the Clippers’ first-round playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks this year because of inflammation in his right knee. Team USA said Leonard “had a few strong practices,” but it would not be a surprise if he experienced issues with his knee again.

The Clippers might have to lean on Leonard more than ever next season after Paul George signed with the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency. That may have been another factor in Leonard’s decision to sit out the Paris Olympics.

Anything less than a gold medal in Paris would be a disappointment for Team USA, though it did already have a scare in a scrimmage game.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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