NBA All-Star forward Kevin Durant withdrew from Team USA consideration on Thursday. The Oklahoma City Thunder star, who was a lock to make the squad, cited mental and physical fatigue for his decision not to participate in FIBA World Cup.
"This was an extremely difficult decision as I take great pride in representing our country," Durant said in a statement. "I know that I owe it to my USA Basketball teammates to be totally invested in the experience. After going through training camp with USAB, I realized I could not fulfill my responsibilities to the team from both a time and energy standpoint.
"I need to take a step back and take some time away, both mentally and physically in order to prepare for the upcoming NBA season. I will be rooting for USAB and look forward to future opportunities with them."
Why did @KDTrey5 withdraw from USAB? His Under Armour/Nike decision? Fatigue? Fear after PG injury? All of the above, writes @royceyoung
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) August 8, 2014
Durant's departure comes nearly a week after the devastating right leg fracture suffered by Indiana Pacers forward Paul George. The injury occurred Aug. 1 during a Team USA intrasquad game.
But Durant isn't the only high-profile forward opting not to compete for Team USA this year. All-Stars Kevin Love [T'wolves], Blake Griffin [Clippers] and LaMarcus Aldridge [Trail Blazers]. NBA Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs also isn't available. New Orleans Pelicans power forward Anthony Davis is the lone frontcourt NBA All-Star remaining on Team USA's roster.
In Durant, Team USA loses the reigning league MVP and its marquee player. Nearly unstoppable on offense, the 6-foot-5, 25-year-old Durant averaged 32 points, 7.4 rebounds and 5.5 assists last season.
According to ESPN.com, Team USA remains favored to win the World Cup tournament. However, oddsmakers like their chances a little less. TWith Durant, Team USA was a 2-7 favorite; they are now at 2-5.
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