In a surprising turn of events, basketball superstar Kawhi Leonard has stepped down from Team USA for the upcoming Paris 2024 Summer Olympics. 🏀✨ The Los Angeles Clippers forward and two-time NBA Finals MVP made the decision to withdraw, as announced by USA Basketball on Wednesday.
But don't worry, hoops fans! Stepping into his shoes is none other than Derrick White of the Boston Celtics. 🎉🔥 White is set to bring his A-game to the national team as they gear up for the global stage in Paris.
\"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,\" said the United States basketball governing body 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 an impressive season, making 68 appearances—the third-most in his 13-year NBA career. He averaged 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game during the 2023-24 regular season. 💪 However, a right knee injury limited him to just two postseason games, where the Clippers fell 4-2 to the Dallas Mavericks in the Western Conference first-round playoffs.
Derrick White, known for his dynamic plays and clutch performances with the Celtics, is eager to step up. 🌟 Fans are buzzing to see how he will contribute to Team USA's quest for gold in Paris.
The countdown to the Olympics just got even more exciting! 🇫🇷⏳ Stay tuned as Team USA prepares to bring the heat to the world's biggest stage.
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Derrick White replaces Kawhi Leonard on Team USA for Paris 2024
cgtn.com
