Zion Williamson became the latest big name to pull out of Team USA squad for FIBA World Cup 2019 in China.
This year’s top draft pick will focus on adjusting to playing in the NBA and getting accustomed to his new teammates in New Orleans.
James Harden and Anthony Davis were just of the NBA stars who decided to concentrate on preparing for the coming club season instead of national team.
According to Joe Vardon of The Athletic, Marcus Smart, Jayen Brown, D’Angelo Russell, Mike Conley, Thaddeus Young are on the of replacements for defecting stars.
Team USA, coached by Gregg Popovich, will start the FIBA World Cup group stage with Czech Republic, Japan and Turkey.
