FIBA

Chris Paul Withdraws from Olympic Consideration

Chris Paul Withdraws from Olympic Consideration

Another Team USA staple has taken himself out of contention for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio.Chris Paul of the Los Angeles Clippers has withdrawn his name

Mar 29, 2016 by Brett Pickert
Chris Paul Withdraws from Olympic Consideration
Another Team USA staple has taken himself out of contention for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio.

Chris Paul of the Los Angeles Clippers has withdrawn his name from consideration for Team USA. This decision comes after carrying the Clippers in their recent stretch. Paul told SI.com, "I feel my body telling me that I could use the time." During this recent stretch, the Clippers have been without Blake Griffin due to injury and NBA suspension.

Chris Paul boasts a number of Olympic accolades, including gold medals in 2008 and 2012 and an undefeated Olympic record.

When asked who should replace him on the Olympic team, CP3 said, "Someone else I think would be great is Kyle Lowry. I love watching him play. You need that grit." Unfortunately, Lowry was not selected as one of the 30 Olympic finalists, but there are plenty of premier point guards that can suit up for the stars and stripes. Lillard, Conley, Wall, Irving, Curry and Westbrook could all potentially take Paul's coveted spot.

CP3 joins Kobe Bryant (retirement) and Anthony Davis (injury) on the list of hallmark athletes who will not represent Team USA in Rio.