Kawhi Leonard Lands Final Spot in Olympics Roster

Kawhi Leonard joins Team USA roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics | Image: Nightcap

Indicating an improvement in Kawhi Leonard’s right knee condition, the All-Star forward of the Los Angeles Clippers has been officially added to the USA Basketball roster for the upcoming Paris Olympics, as per various reports on Tuesday.

On Monday, when reports on the USA roster emerged, there was a vacancy remaining that was set to be left unfilled until the completion of the team’s training sessions.

Leonard was included in the roster on the same day he participated partially in the Clippers’ practice session, gearing up for their playoff series opener against the Dallas Mavericks scheduled for Sunday.

Despite averaging 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in 68 games during the season, Leonard was absent for the final eight games due to knee concerns, necessitating his return to Los Angeles for treatment during the team’s recent road trip.

Coach Tyronn Lue has not yet confirmed Leonard’s availability for the playoff opener.

The 32-year-old has encountered knee challenges in recent seasons, notably appearing in 52 games in the previous season, missing the entirety of another due to an ACL injury, and returning to participate in 52 games during the current season.

His participation in 68 games this season marks his highest count since featuring in 74 games for the San Antonio Spurs in 2016-17.

The star-studded 12-player roster will also boast the likes of Stephen Curry, who will be making his Olympics debut appearance.

Alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis from the Los Angeles Lakers, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker from the Phoenix Suns will also grace the roster. James is expected to make his first Olympics appearance since 2012, marking his fourth career representation.

Other confirmed team members include Jayson Tatum and Jrue Holiday representing the Boston Celtics, Joel Embiid from the Philadelphia 76ers, Anthony Edwards from the Minnesota Timberwolves, Bam Adebayo from the Miami Heat, and Tyrese Haliburton from the Indiana Pacers, as per reports.

The coaching staff for Team USA comprises Golden State Warriors’ head coach Steve Kerr in charge, with assistance from Erik Spoelstra of the Miami Heat and Mark Few from Gonzaga University.

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