Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook will not participate in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
From the Thunder’s official announcement:
“Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook issued the following statement on his decision to withdraw from the 2016 Olympics:
“After speaking with my family, I have decided not to participate in this year’s Olympics. 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.”
Another point guard down. Westbrook joins Stephen Curry, Chris Paul, and John Wall as point guards who will skip this year’s Olympics.
With those four out, replacements could include Kyle Lowry, Damian Lillard, Mike Conley, Kyrie Irving, Isaiah Thomas, or Kemba Walker.
Other players who will miss the Olympics include LaMarcus Aldridge, Blake Griffin, and Anthony Davis.
DeMarcus Cousins wants to play, and has reportedly been guaranteed a spot on the roster.
Westbrook’s teammate Kevin Durant reportedly told ESPN’s Royce Young that he plans on participating. Will Westbrook’s absence affect Durant’s decision? It’s too early to say.
