Team U.S.A. Names Replacements for Bradley Beal and Kevin Love

“Since he was a little kid, this has been a dream of his, and he was playing great,” Popovich told reporters, adding: “For him and his immediate family, it’s devastating. We just feel horrible about it.”

The men’s team has had a shaky beginning to defending its three consecutive gold medals. Team U.S.A. opened with exhibition losses to Nigeria and Australia before blowing out Argentina.

Top players like LeBron James (Lakers), Jimmy Butler (Heat), Kyrie Irving (Nets) and James Harden (Nets) declined to participate in the Olympics following a condensed off-season last year. Forward Jayson Tatum (Celtics), who is on the roster, is dealing with right knee soreness. Also on the team: Bam Adebayo (Heat), Kevin Durant (Nets), Draymond Green (Golden State), Zach LaVine (Bulls) and Damian Lillard (Trail Blazers).

Milwaukee’s Jrue Holiday and Khris Middleton and Phoenix’s Devin Booker are expected to join the team after the completion of the N.B.A. finals. The best-of-seven series is tied at two games apiece, with Game 5 on Saturday in Phoenix.

Article source: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/16/sports/olympics/usa-bradley-beal-kevin-love.html