Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving was not included Wednesday among 12 NBA players selected to Team USA's men's basketball roster for the upcoming Paris Olympics.
Irving, who won a gold medal with the U.S. team at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, reflected on the news after the Mavericks practiced Thursday.
“I wish my brothers well. I just didn't fit in well with this team,” Irving said. “The deliberation process was grueling. But again, I have nothing but respect for them in the United States.” [Basketball].
“I think at this point in my career, my focus is to win championships.”
The men's basketball roster competing in Paris includes guards Stephen Curry, Devin Booker, Jrue Holiday, Anthony Edwards and Tyrese Haliburton. Curry has appeared in two FIBA World Cups as a member of Team USA, but will be looking for his first Olympic gold medal, along with Edwards and Haliburton.
USA Basketball commemorated each player on the Olympic roster with jerseys and surprises at team facilities across the NBA. But Irving misses the days when Team USA held tryouts for international events.
“I also grew up in an era when you actually had to try out for the U.S. national team. [Basketball]. “We met as a group and as allies,” he said. “It created a sense of mutual respect by trying things out and seeing what the results were.” [players] They meshed well. I think the timing is obviously a little different. But I miss the days when we could gather together, break bread, and compete with each other. And at the end of her 4-5 days the deliberation process begins. Even though people know who is going to be on the team.
“I miss that fun part of when we all get together. But I wish my brothers well.”
Training camp for the Olympics begins on July 5 in Las Vegas.
