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Draymond Green, eager to play if called, expresses disappointment over exclusion from Olympic player pool
Although Draymond Green is disappointed about not being included in the initial 41-player pool, from which the 12-man U.S. Olympic team is expected to be selected, the two-time gold medalist is prepared to step in if called upon later.
In a video released on Monday, Green expressed his readiness, stating, “If I get a call because some guys drop off that list for unforeseen reasons, and they need to fill a spot on that team, guess what? I’ll be ready with my bags packed to play in a third Olympics because I’m not too big to be a second choice.”
Green, who has participated in the last two Olympics alongside Kevin Durant, was omitted from the pool selected by national team managing director Grant Hill.
Between now and the expected roster announcement in April or May, players may be included or excluded from the pool.
Just two weeks ago, Green made a comeback to the Warriors’ game after being suspended by the NBA for a “repeated history of unsportsmanlike acts.” Initially deemed indefinite, the suspension ultimately lasted for 12 games.
Last week, Grant Hill expressed understanding, respect, and sensitivity toward this particular phase in Draymond Green’s career. Hill mentioned that Green is dealing with matters both on and off the court. USA Basketball aims to support him on his journey, but the decision was made not to include him in the summer play as it might not provide the best opportunity for Green to address what he needs to.
Acknowledging Green’s significant contributions and his integral role in the organization’s legacy, Hill emphasized that, considering the events of the current year, they decided not to include him in the list of players for the upcoming activities.
Expressing gratitude to USA Basketball for the opportunity to play in two Olympics, Draymond Green acknowledged that when he was in college at Michigan State, he didn’t anticipate being selected for the senior national team.
Reflecting on the current player pool list, Green conceded that, considering the names on it, he might not have made the team anyway unless it was based on his previous Olympic experiences and sacrifices. Green mentioned that the suspensions provided USA Basketball with an alternative, allowing them to avoid the dilemma of whether to include him. Despite this, he expressed acceptance of the situation, stating, “I’m a man. I stand on my mistakes and things I’ve done wrong.”
