Draymond Green won’t be representing Team USA at the Paris Olympics, and according to Grant Hill, his recent suspensions played a role in the decision. Hill, the managing director of Team USA basketball, emphasized the need for Green to focus on himself this summer.
Key Takeaway
Draymond Green’s recent suspensions have contributed to his absence from the Team USA roster for the Paris Olympics, as explained by Grant Hill, the managing director of Team USA basketball.
Team USA Roster Selection
On Tuesday, 41 professional players were announced as potential candidates for the 2024 Games. However, only 12 of them will ultimately make the final cut. Despite being a two-time gold medalist and one of the NBA’s top forwards, Green was notably absent from the list.
Grant Hill’s Explanation
Hill acknowledged the challenges that Green is currently facing, both on and off the court. He expressed Team USA’s support for Green’s journey but indicated that playing over the summer may not provide him with the best opportunity to address his needs.
Green’s exclusion follows his recent 12-game suspension for striking Suns center Jusuf Nurkić in the face during a game in December. Prior to that incident, he was suspended for five games for putting Timberwolves star Rudy Gobert in a headlock while defending his teammate Klay Thompson.
Despite his history of controversy, Green has expressed a commitment to removing certain behaviors from his game. However, this decision means that he will not be joining players like Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Kyrie Irving, Trae Young, and Damian Lillard in the quest for Olympic gold.
