After an initial hopeful start with Team USA, Kawhi Leonard has made the tough decision to step away from the U.S. Olympic basketball team to prioritize recovery for his surgically-repaired right knee. Leonard, known for his perseverance through injury setbacks, was aiming to join the team in Paris for the Olympics but will now focus on preparing for the upcoming 2024-25 NBA season with the Los Angeles Clippers.
Knee Health Remains Top Priority
Leonard’s knee, which he described as being in a “neutral state” during early practices, showed signs of strain after a few days of training camp. Despite several strong practices in Las Vegas and a sense of optimism that he could compete, Leonard ultimately decided, in consultation with Team USA and the Clippers, that it would be best to withdraw. Team USA released a statement affirming Leonard’s dedication, noting that he had “been ramping up for the Olympics” but would benefit more from summer conditioning aimed at the next NBA season.
The team promptly replaced Leonard with Boston Celtics guard Derrick White ahead of an exhibition game against Canada. Leonard had previously expressed his intention to participate in that game, saying, “I think I will suit up tomorrow. Everything has been good so far.” However, his health history suggests caution, and Leonard’s decision reflects his commitment to both his physical well-being and the Clippers’ future.
Injury Challenges Throughout Leonard’s Career
Injuries have been a recurring theme in Leonard’s career, particularly since joining the Clippers. While he managed to play 68 games last season, the most since his time with the San Antonio Spurs in 2016-17, Leonard still missed the final eight games of the regular season due to inflammation in his right knee. In the first-round playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks, Leonard appeared in Games 2 and 3 but sat out the remaining games due to knee issues, with his last appearance being on April 26.
Since signing with the Clippers, Leonard has only participated in 226 of the 410 possible regular-season games. The 2021-22 season was entirely lost as he recovered from a torn ACL sustained during the 2021 playoffs, and he faced additional complications in 2023, suffering a torn meniscus that led to another knee procedure last summer. Despite these challenges, Leonard has continued to push forward, emphasizing his determination to inspire others through his resilience.
“Last year, I tried to play as much as possible, felt great, and at a certain period, I couldn’t go,” Leonard said. Reflecting on his injury journey, he added, “I motivate a lot of people… Just being able to keep going is going to motivate the next guy that’s watching you.”
Concerns from Team USA Staff and Clippers Management
According to sources close to the situation, concern about Leonard’s readiness had been growing. Grant Hill, managing director of Team USA; head coach Steve Kerr; and Lawrence Frank, Clippers’ president of basketball operations, all observed Leonard during recent workouts at the Clippers’ practice facility. Kerr noted that Leonard’s performance in practices was “up and down,” attributing some of the variability to the accelerated preparation timeline.
Kerr explained the dilemma: “The tricky part here is that you have an accelerated timeline for preparation. So, that’s what we have to determine… Can he be at his best a couple of weeks from now when this thing starts?” Ultimately, the decision to withdraw reflects an acknowledgment that Leonard’s knee may not be ready for the intensity of Olympic competition.
Looking Ahead to the 2024-25 NBA Season
Leonard’s choice to sit out the Olympics underscores his focus on making a full recovery before the next NBA season. With his knee demanding careful management, Leonard and the Clippers hope that his summer rest will allow him to return at full strength in the fall. Despite the challenges, Leonard’s steadfast commitment to both his personal health and professional performance remains evident, marking a promising outlook for the upcoming NBA season.
As Leonard steps back from Team USA, he leaves with well wishes from fans and fellow athletes. His decision illustrates the high stakes athletes often face when balancing passion for competition with long-term health. For Leonard and the Clippers, this path could ensure his longevity in the NBA, allowing him to continue inspiring both fans and teammates with his resilience and dedication on the court.
