Kobe Bryant won't feature at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio. Apparently, no Bryant also means no LeBron James.
The four-time NBA MVP might not join the U.S. Olympic basketball team because of Bryant's decision, per Kevin Ding. As emotional as James' decision seems, it's the only logical one for his aging body.
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There's no need for him to subject himself to additional minutes this summer.
Before the 2015-16 season even started -- combining minutes logged in the regular season, playoffs and FIBA competitions -- James already played more minutes in his pro career than Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Jerry West, Clyde Drexler and Steve Nash, per Hoops Hype.
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The dude is only 31.
Add to that -- with five consecutive NBA Finals appearances -- James' summer has extended longer than any other active NBA player. With the Cavs (38-14) leading the way in the Eastern Conference, all signs point to the sixth. There's no need to pile on additional minutes.
Especially when there's nothing left to prove.
James already redeemed Team USA's third-placed finish in 2004 with back-to-back gold medals in 2008 and 2012.
Is a third gold medal really going to do anything to impact his legacy?
So while the notion of following Bryant's footsteps is a romantic one, it's really logic that's preventing James from joining the Olympic basketball team. He'd be wise to abide by that logic.
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A 35-point night for @KyrieIrving #NBAHistory for @KingJames
A #KB20 farewell #CavsTV captured it all:https://t.co/qRuBlHcF4m— Cleveland Cavaliers (@cavs) February 11, 2016
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