Las Vegas, Nevada – Kawhi Leonard, the NBA star from Nevada, will not be representing Team USA at the Summer Olympics in Paris. Leonard, a San Diego State alumnus, was ruled out due to concerns over his right knee, which has been a recurring issue.

The decision was made by USA Basketball, and Leonard’s spot on the roster will now be filled by Derrick White of the Boston Celtics. Leonard, who missed the end of the previous NBA season due to knee issues, had been preparing for the Olympics but ultimately had to prioritize his health and upcoming NBA season.

The 33-year-old Leonard has faced several knee injuries in recent years, including a torn ACL and a torn meniscus. Despite his optimism about competing in the Olympics, it was ultimately decided that it was best for him to focus on his recovery and preparation for the upcoming NBA season.

The Clippers, Leonard’s NBA team, recently lost Paul George to free agency and are in the process of opening a new arena. With Leonard’s injury history and the team’s future plans in mind, it was determined that participating in the Olympics could pose a risk to his health.

In other basketball news, the NBA’s Las Vegas Summer League is set to begin, showcasing young talent like former San Diego State players Keshad Johnson and Nathan Mensah. Johnson impressed in the California Classic, while Mensah showed promise in his games with the San Antonio Spurs.

Additionally, former SDSU guard Keith Dinwiddie is set to continue his college career at Division II Chico State after stints at other schools. The basketball community eagerly awaits the upcoming season and further developments in the sport.