Russell Westbrook and James Harden will not play for Team USA in the 2016 Rio Olympics.
They join a growing list of American stars who have recently withdrawn from Olympic consideration, including Stephen Curry, LaMarcus Aldridge, Chris Paul, Anthony Davis and John Wall.
Unlike the aforementioned players, however, Harden and Westbrook appear to be healthy heading into the summer.
The news is encouraging in a way since roster spots are now available for deserving players like Damian Lillard, who previously may not have gotten the call.
More from ESPN:
Thunder guard Russell Westbrook and Houston Rockets guard James Harden became the latest stars to announce they are withdrawing their names from consideration for USA Basketball’s 2016 Rio Olympics team.
“After speaking with my family, I have decided to not participate in this year’s Olympics,” Westbrook said in a statement Friday. “This was not an easy decision, as representing my country at the World Championships in 2010 and the Olympics in 2012 were career highlights for me. I look forward to future opportunities as a member of USA Basketball.”
“As a member of the 2012 London Olympic Gold Medal Team, and as Team Captain for the 2014 FIBA Gold Medal Team, it goes without saying that USA Basketball has provided me with some of the most meaningful personal and professional accomplishments of my life,” Harden said in a statement. “I have been extremely blessed to wear the ‘red, white, and blue’ and to compete at the highest international level with the greatest players representing the greatest country in the world. I sincerely hope I’ll earn an opportunity to represent Team USA again in the future.”
