It's no secret that Kevin Durant's absence from Team USA will put a dint in the squad's chances at this summer's FIBA World Cup.
The less-told story is what it might mean for the Oklahoma City Thunder, the team Durant led all the way to the 2014 Western Conference Finals. Though OKC ultimately faltered to the San Antonio Spurs in six games (thanks in some part to big man Serge Ibaka missing Games 1 and 2 with a leg injury), the franchise is poised for a successful follow-up campaign.
And the reigning MVP's decision to withdraw from Team USA can't hurt.
Durant released a statement explaining his thought process, saying (via ESPN.com), "After going through training camp with USAB, I realized I could not fulfill my responsibilities to the team from both a time and energy standpoint."
He added, "I need to take a step back and take some time away, both mentally and physically in order to prepare for the upcoming NBA season."
"Kevin … expressed that he is just physically and mentally drained from the NBA season and his attention to his many responsibilities," chairman of USA Basketball Jerry Colang ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NBA
Article written by Stephen Babb
Kevin Durant’s Decision Could Mean Big Things for OKC Thunder
August 15th, 2014 by Stephen Babb Leave a reply »
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