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[Saba Sports News] USA Basketball’s provisional 41-man roster for the Paris Summer Olympics was released on Wednesday, and the absence of Draymond Green, a two-time gold medalist and a veteran of the last two Team USA squads, was a noticeable omission. Grant Hill, USA Basketball’s executive director, attributed Green’s exclusion to his multiple suspensions for on-court behavior this season.
Hill acknowledged Green’s significant contributions and his role in the organization’s legacy. However, he mentioned that, given recent events, it was decided not to include Green in the current selection process. Hill also suggested that not participating in the summer games would allow Green the best opportunity to focus on his needs.
Despite Team USA’s strong player pool, Green’s absence is unexpected, especially considering that Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr, who has worked closely with Green, is the national team coach. This season, Green faced two suspensions: one for a physical altercation with Rudy Gobert and another for striking Jusuf Nurkic. The Warriors and Green have expressed their intention to focus on helping him maintain better composure during games.