Rockets’ James Harden pulls out of 2016 Rio Olympics
James Harden is the latest superstar to pull out of the 2016 Olympics in Rio.
At this rate, the U.S. Olympic basketball roster could be made up of role players or college players with more and more NBA superstars pulling out of the summer games in Rio.
The latest to pull out is Houston Rockets guard James Harden who joins a group that includes Russell Westbrook and Stephen Curry who have withdrawn from the Olympics for various reasons.
Harden released a statement saying he won’t play this year but hopes to play for his country again at another time.
“As a result of many difficult conversations with my family, the Rockets, and trusted advisors, I’ve notified Jerry Colangelo and Team USA that I will not be competing at the 2016 Olympic Summer Games in Brazil.
This decision was a painstaking one that I did not take lightly. As a member of the 2012 London Olympic Gold Medal Team, and as Team Captain for the 2014 FIBA Gold Medal Team, it goes without saying that USA Basketball has provided me with some of the most meaningful personal and professional accomplishments of my life. I have been extremely blessed to wear the “red, white, and blue” and to compete at the highest international level with the greatest players representing the greatest country in the world. I sincerely hope I’ll earn an opportunity to represent Team USA again in the future.”
The Zika virus has been an ongoing concern for the athletes traveling to Rio for the games and while it’s unclear if that’s the reason for Harden pulling out, it’s hard not to blame him or any NBA star for pulling out.
The wear and tear of an 82-game regular season and playoff schedule is grueling enough but when you include the travel, practice and games required for the Olympics, there leaves little time to recuperate and prepare for the next NBA season.
Plus, I’m sure the Rockets are happy Harden won’t subject himself to injury and their investment can focus on getting better and helping Houston get better after a disappointing season.
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