Before flying to Tokyo, Gregg Popovich’s men will play five friendlies. And with only 9 players available, the coaches do not want to pull the rope of their best elements.
That’s why seven new kids have joined the ranks of Team USA for the friendly matches. Among them, there are three NBAers: Keldon Johnson, Saddiq Bey and Darius Garland, but also players from other championships such as John Jenkins, Josh Magette, Dakota Mathias and Cam Reynolds.
These seven will be available to coaches for the first preparatory match against Nigeria, scheduled for this Saturday in Las Vegas.
Good news for Saddiq Bey, Keldon Johnson and Darius Garland since these three young people are coming out of a good season, even if none of them managed to qualify for the playoffs.
But the preparation is not easy for the American team because the “Select Team” is very weak. After the departure of Anthony Edwards for injury, the Detroit Free Press tells us that Isaiah Stewart ended his stint due to a painful ankle. Injured to which is added Immanuel Quickley who had to withdraw because of Covid-19, Miles Bridges and PJ Washington being them placed in solitary confinement.
In total, ESPN reports that seven members of the “Select Team”, including Naz Reid (injury) and Tyler Herro, did not take part in practice on Friday.
THE WORKFORCE OF 12 TEAM USA PLAYERS FOR THE OLYMPICS
Damian Lillard (Blazers)
Jrue Holiday (Bucks)*
Bradley Beal (Wizards)
Devin Booker (Suns)*
Zach LaVine (Bulls)
Khris Middleton (Bucks)*
Jerami Grant (Pistons)
Jayson Tatum (Celtics)
Kevin Durant (Nets)
Draymond Green (Warriors)
Kevin Love (Cavaliers)
Bam Adebayo (Heat)
* Currently absent because present in the Finals
