The Warriors are two victories away from repeating as NBA Champions, but some people are already talking about the basketball that will be played in Brazil for the 2016 Summer Olympics.
Around this time, we are usually anxious for the Olympics to start, but there has been some controversy leading to the Rio games. The Zika virus has created quite a scare and several athletes have considered not participating in this historic event.
The Warriors have three potential Olympians, but according to Marcus Thompson of the Bay Area News Group, Steph Curry will no longer be going to Rio and it has nothing to do with the Zika virus:
Stephen Curry pulls out of 2016 Olympics in Brazil. He may not be alone || https://t.co/ZIPYxc1ZC4 || pic.twitter.com/4mJH3tzU9x
— Marcus Thompson (@ThompsonScribe) June 6, 2016
The back-to-back MVP injured his knee during their opening series against the Houston Rockets, but has battled back to help his team chase another ring. However, he will need to rehab it after yet another long run in the post-season. Regardless if the Warriors win or lose this series, the Warriors need Curry to come back strong and healthy to start next season and continue building on the success they have already achieved.
Curry is going to receive his first big contract from the Warriors and it’s in his best interest to take care of his body. Winning a gold medal is a tremendous honor, but Curry is making the smart decision. Warrior fans are a bit disappointed they won’t see Curry make it rain in Brazil, but at least you know he will back 110 percent for the 2016-17 season.
For more information, refer to the official Warriors press release below:
STEPHEN CURRY STATEMENT REGARDING USA BASKETBALL & 2016 SUMMER OLYMPICS
The following statement was released today by Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry:
“After a great deal of internal thought and several discussions with my family, the Warriors and my representatives, I’ve elected to withdraw my name from the list of eligible players on Team USA’s preliminary roster for the 2016 Summer Games in Brazil. I recently informed Jerry Colangelo of this decision.”
“My previous experiences with USA Basketball have been incredibly rewarding, educational and enjoyable, which made this an extremely difficult decision for me and my family. However, due to several factors – including recent ankle and knee injuries – I believe this is the best decision for me at this stage of my career. It’s an incredible honor to represent your country and wear ‘USA’ on your chest, but my primary basketball-related objective this summer needs to focus on my body and getting ready for the 2016-17 NBA season.”