Kawhi Leonard to Skip Paris Olympics, Focuses on NBA Season

Kawhi Leonard, the star forward for the Los Angeles Clippers, will not participate in the U.S. men's basketball team for the Paris Olympics. Leonard will instead prepare for the 2024-25 NBA season, following injury concerns. This decision follows a few weeks of practice and evaluation.

Kawhi Leonard, the forward for the Los Angeles Clippers, won't be joining the U.S. men's basketball team for the Paris Olympics, USA Basketball announced on Wednesday. Leonard, aged 33, is focusing on preparing for the 2024-25 NBA season after dealing with injuries in recent years.

Leonard had been practicing for the Olympics in Las Vegas and felt ready to compete, according to USA Basketball. However, it was ultimately decided that he should spend the summer prepping for the upcoming NBA season rather than participating in the Olympic Games, which start on July 27.

Despite Leonard's absence, Team USA will still feature a star-studded roster as they aim for their fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal. The Americans will face Serbia, South Sudan, and Puerto Rico in the group stage.