It’s the same old story: another basketball player drops out of Team USA’s roster for FIBA World Cup. But this time, it was a player that actually wanted to play on the tournament.
Toronto Raptors’ point guard Kyle Lowry announced on Instagram on Monday that he is forced to drop out of the team due to a thumb injury. According to Lowry, he wasn’t cleared by the medical staff to take part in the competition.
Lowry was dealing with thumb issues since the playoffs and had to undergo surgery last month to fix the injury. He hoped he will be able to recover in time for the World Cup, but realized that he will have to spend additional time rehabilitating after meeting with his surgeon.
“I was hoping to be available in time to help my country in their quest for gold in this upcoming tournament,” – said Lowry in a statement. “I love playing for USAB, but I have to sit this one out and support the team from home.”
With Lowry out and Sacramento Kings’ Marvin Bagley deciding to pull his name out of the consideration, there are now 15 players left competing for the final 12 spots on the roster.
Team USA’s head coach Gregg Popovich will announce the final roster for FIBA World Cup 2019 on August 17th.
