Chris Paul has played a key role in helping the United States win basketball gold in the last two Olympics, but he won't be back for another attempt in Rio.
The Clippers guard told SI.com on Monday that he is withdrawing from consideration for this year's Olympic team and will prioritize rest and recovery this summer. “I feel my body telling me that I could use the time,” Paul said.
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Paul, who turns 31 in May, is averaging a career-low 33.1 minutes per game this season. But he has had to carry the load for the Clippers with Blake Griffin sidelined much of the season and is on a pace for his highest scoring output since the 2008-09 campaign.
He has been a steady hand for the U.S. on the world's biggest stage, averaging 8.1 points and 4.6 assists per game in 16 games between Beijing and London, but U.S. coach Mike Krzyzewski will have to distribute the backcourt minutes differently this time around.
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Stephen Curry figures to be a centerpiece for Team USA after not being selected for the 2012 Games, but he played shooting guard at the 2014 FIBA World Cup. That leaves the point guard spot open for the taking: Russell Westbrook and Kyrie Irving have experience with the team, while Damian Lillard, John Wall and Mike Conley are trying to make the cut.
