In a surprising turn of events, Kawhi Leonard, the two-time NBA Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) from the Los Angeles Clippers, has withdrawn from Team USA ahead of the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. USA Basketball announced the news on Wednesday, confirming that Derrick White of the Boston Celtics will fill Leonard’s roster spot.
Leonard had been preparing diligently for the Olympics, participating in several rigorous practices in Las Vegas. “Kawhi has been ramping up for the Olympics over the last several weeks and had a few strong practices in Las Vegas. He felt ready to compete,” the United States basketball governing body said in a statement. “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.”
Leonard had a notable season in 2023-24, making 68 appearances—the third-most in his 13-year NBA career—and averaging 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game for the Clippers. Unfortunately, a right knee injury limited him to just two games in the postseason, where the Clippers fell to the Dallas Mavericks 4-2 in the Western Conference first-round playoffs.
Derrick White’s addition to Team USA brings fresh energy to the roster. The Boston Celtics guard is known for his defensive prowess and versatility on the court. His participation in the Paris Olympics will mark his first appearance on the Olympic stage, offering him an opportunity to showcase his talents on an international platform.
White’s inclusion is expected to bolster Team USA’s backcourt depth as they aim for gold in Paris. Basketball fans around the world will be eager to see how the team adapts to these changes and performs on the global stage.
As the countdown to the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics continues, Team USA remains committed to assembling a squad capable of bringing home the championship. Despite Leonard’s absence, the team is poised to make a strong showing with its blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars like White.
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Derrick White replaces Kawhi Leonard on Team USA for Paris 2024
cgtn.com
