Kerr Confirms Kawhi Leonard, Rest of Team USA Will Report to Camp

Team USA coach Steve Kerr announced that all 12 players selected for the Olympic team, including LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard, will be present and ready to participate when training camp begins in Las Vegas next week.

Kerr confirmed that continuous communication has ensured that all players will be prepared for the camp’s start. Leonard, who will turn 33 on Saturday, missed the final three games of the Clippers’ season due to issues with his surgically repaired right knee, which did not respond well during Game 3 of their first-round series against the Dallas Mavericks. This marked the fourth consecutive season Leonard’s playoffs were cut short or did not happen at all due to injury.

Clippers president of basketball operations, Lawrence Frank, stated that Leonard is eager to play in Paris. He emphasized that Leonard’s primary focus has been on rehabilitation and returning to full health, with the Olympics being a significant goal. Leonard is ramping up his efforts, prioritizing long-term health to ensure he is ready not only for the Olympics but also for a successful upcoming season and a prolonged career.

Kerr mentioned that he has been in touch with Leonard and his camp ahead of the July 6 camp start. He highlighted the importance of every roster spot, acknowledging that injuries and other factors could lead to changes, but he fully expects all 12 players to be ready for camp.

This also includes Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton, who suffered a hamstring injury that ended his season in the Eastern Conference finals against the Boston Celtics. Haliburton admitted to initial concerns about his ability to participate but confirmed that he is back to normal and fully ready for camp. He credited his medical team for their reassurance and effective treatment, which included balancing rest and strengthening exercises.

In addition to injury concerns, there are questions about which five players Kerr will start from a roster full of stars. Kerr noted that determining the starting lineup will be a significant task during the Las Vegas training camp. The coaching staff aims to find combinations that work well together and create effective two-way lineups. Kerr emphasized the importance of all players committing to the goal of winning a gold medal, regardless of their individual roles.

Training camp in Las Vegas will be crucial for Team USA to finalize their lineup and ensure all players are ready to compete at the highest level. With stars like Leonard and Haliburton returning to full health, the team is poised to make a strong showing in the upcoming Olympics.