On an American basketball team filled with star players, no one has scored more points this season in the NBA than Bradley Beal. But COVID-19 has just ruined his Olympic dream.
But while he is at his peak, the Wizards guard will not have the chance to demonstrate his talent on the international stage at the Tokyo Olympics.
Beal’s name was put on the U.S. basketball team’s health and safety protocol list on Thursday. A replacement will be announced later to take his place in the squad.
“I’m devastated for him,” said head coach Gregg Popovich. We all are. ”
In addition to Beal, winger Jerami Grant’s name has also been added to the roster as a precaution. According to Popovich, Grant shouldn’t have to leave the team.
A few hours after the announcement of these two cases, it was announced the cancellation of the pre-season game scheduled for Friday between the United States and Australia in Las Vegas. A decision taken “by an abundance of precautions”. The clash between the women’s teams of the two countries will take place as scheduled.
It could not be confirmed whether Beal was adequately vaccinated. He was part of the starting lineup for the US team’s three preseason games in Las Vegas. He maintained an average of 10.3 points.
The Wizards guard finished second in points per game average this season in the NBA with 31.3 points. Only Steph Curry did better, but the maverick chose to skip the Olympics.
Bam Adebayo has heard from Beal who has assured him that he does not feel symptoms related to COVID-19. Despite everything, the news shocked the players who were very careful and followed the protocol scrupulously in the hope of avoiding any infection.
“I remember when I got it, it’s one of those things I wouldn’t wish on anyone,” commented Adebayo, who said he had bad flashbacks from his own experience with COVID-19.
Beal was scheduled to play for the US team at the World Cup in China two years ago but had to retire just before preparation camp for family reasons.
He finally had the opportunity to don the United States jersey at the senior level and looked ready for the challenge.
“No doubt, it’s a huge loss,” said coach Popovich. He played very well, understood everything and fitted in well with the group. There’s no next Bradley Beal. ”
The United States were already playing without some important elements of their preseason roster as Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday of the Milwaukee Bucks as well as Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns are still in action in the NBA Finals.
Team officials are on the hunt for a player in good shape despite the fact that the NBA season ended in May. Beal’s replacement might not be such a prolific scorer, rather he could be a utility player who can complement the squad of players in place.
There are still two preparatory games to play in Las Vegas before the team leaves for Tokyo. The United States’ first official match in the Olympic tournament is scheduled for July 25 against France.
