Kevin Durant To Remain With Team USA Despite Calf Injury

Forward Kevin Durant is expected to remain with Team USA despite a calf injury that has kept him out of action, per Brian Windhorst of ESPN.

The Americans completed their exhibition portion of the schedule with a close win over Germany on Monday. They begin play in the Paris Olympics vs. Serbia on Sunday. Durant has not appeared in any of the tune-up games.

That said, Durant reportedly has practiced and seems to be ramping up toward a 2024 Team USA debut.

“There’s no thought of replacing Kevin,” Team USA coach Steve Kerr said, via Windhorst. “I was hoping he would get a game in here, but it just didn’t work out that way.”

For his career, Durant has appeared in 22 Olympic games and is averaging 19.8 points, 5.4 rebounds and 3.2 assists. He also is this version of Team USA’s leading scorer with 435 career points — having been a member of gold-winning squads in 2012, 2016 and 2021.

In other Team USA news, forward LeBron James will be among those carrying the U.S. flag at Friday’s opening ceremonies.

“It’s an incredible honor to represent the United States on this global stage, especially in a moment that can bring the whole world together,” James said. “For a kid from Akron, this responsibility means everything to not only myself, but to my family, all the kids in my hometown, my teammates, fellow Olympians and so many people across the country with big aspirations. Sports have the power to bring us all together, and I’m proud to be a part of this important moment.”

LeBron was nominated for the honor by Stephen Curry, who filmed a video supporting the nomination, and USA Basketball.

“We are thrilled to announce LeBron James as one of two flag bearers who will lead Team USA in the Opening Ceremony, and officially open the Paris 2024 Games,” U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee CEO Sarah Hirshland said in a statement. “Being selected by your teammates to carry the flag is a tremendous honor — and a testament to LeBron’s passion for Team USA and his dedication to his sport. We will watch with great pride as the flag bearers lead our athletes who are about to embark on a remarkable journey together.”

(Ashish Mathur contributed to this report.)