Miami Heat All-Star guard Dwyane Wade has informed USA Basketball that he will be unable to play in the Olympics this summer because of an upcoming surgery on his injured left knee.
"As many people may know, throughout the season, I struggled with a recurring knee issue. After the championship game, I visited with my doctors for a round of comprehensive medical tests, and the recent results dictate the need for surgery. While every part of me wants to be in London, I need to take this time to do what's best to improve my health and allow me to continue to play the game I love. It was an honor to represent my country in 2004 and in 2008 when we won the gold medal. My thoughts and best wishes will travel with Team USA as they prepare to bring home the gold," said Wade.
As a member of the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team that finished 8-0 and won the gold medal, Wade averaged a team best 16.0 ppg. While his Miami Heat teammate LeBron James disappeared in the clutch during the gold medal game against Spain, it was Wade and Kobe Bryant who led the U.S. to victory with numerous big plays.
"D-Wade has a lot of equity with USA Basketball and has made great contributions to our program. We're sorry he won't be with us this summer, but we know he'll be with us in spirit," said said USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo.
The loss of Wade appears to be a trend this year for USA basketball, as several other stars have had to cancel their Olympic plans due to injury, including Dwight Howard, LaMarcus Aldridge, and Derrick Rose.
The team now has 17 finalists contending for 12 roster spots: Carmelo Anthony; Chris Bosh; Kobe Bryant; Tyson Chandler; Anthony Davis; Kevin Durant; Rudy Gay; Eric Gordon; Blake Griffin; James Harden; Andre Iguodala; LeBron James; Kevin Love; Lamar Odom; Chris Paul; Russell Westbrook; and Deron Williams.
By Staff of The Daily Sports Herald and news services
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