In a recent announcement by USA Basketball, it has been revealed that Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard will not be participating in the Paris Olympics. Instead, Boston Celtics guard Derrick White has been selected to take his place on the U.S. men's basketball team.

According to a statement released by USA Basketball, Leonard had been preparing for the Olympics over the past few weeks and showed promising performances during training in Las Vegas. However, it was ultimately decided by both USA Basketball and the Clippers that it would be in Leonard's best interest to focus on preparing for the upcoming NBA season rather than participating in the Olympic Games.

The 33-year-old Leonard, who has faced several injuries in recent years, had managed to play 68 games during the 2023-24 NBA season. However, he had to sit out the Clippers' final three playoff games due to right knee inflammation. Speaking earlier this week, Leonard expressed confidence in his improved condition and readiness to represent his country in his first-ever Olympics.

With Leonard's withdrawal and White's addition, the U.S. men's basketball team will face Canada in an exhibition match in Las Vegas. Unfortunately, Kevin Durant is also set to sit out due to a calf injury. The team has subsequent tune-ups scheduled against Australia on July 15 in Abu Dhabi, Serbia on July 17 in Abu Dhabi, South Sudan on July 20 in London, and Germany on July 22 in London.

The highly anticipated Olympics slate will begin on July 28, where Team USA will go up against Serbia and three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokic. Despite playing different positions, Jokic has shown similar versatility as a defender to Leonard, making him a formidable opponent.

While Leonard's absence will undoubtedly be felt by basketball fans worldwide, the inclusion of Derrick White provides the U.S. men's basketball team with a talented replacement. As the team continues to prepare for the Olympics, they aim to reclaim their dominance on the international stage and bring home the gold medal once again.