The Bradley Beal-Team USA situation has quickly turned into an unfortunate situation. On Thursday afternoon, it was reported that the team was “working to replace” him on the roster. Less than an hour later, a final decision has been made on his status.
Per USA Basketball’s account, Beal “will remain in protocol and will be unable to participate in the Tokyo Olympic Games.” The tweet also officially announces that Jerami Grant has entered health and safety protocols as well.
Things haven’t been easy for Team USA. The team didn’t capture its first exhibition win until Tuesday. Now, without one of its best players for the summer and missing another one temporarily, the challenge of building chemistry will only become more difficult.
Popovich said that the replacement player won’t necessarily be someone who can play at Beal’s level, telling our own Chris Crouse that he expects the team to add a “utility infielder” type player.
More Team USA Notes
- Some are already beginning to ponder who could replace Beal on Team USA. Josh Cornelissen at King James Gospel — like many others — makes the case for Darius Garland. Garland was recently elevated from the Select Team.
- Damian Lillard is one of the leaders of Team USA, and even he’s willing to admit that things haven’t been completely smooth thus far. When asked about where he thinks the team is at right now, the star point guard said, “I think it’s been a process for all of us.”
- Team USA remains favored to win the gold medal in Tokyo, though without Beal, capturing their fifth-straight gold will be a more difficult feat.
