FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019: 5 Team USA players who have withdrawn from the tournament

#1 James Harden

Harden played for Team USA twice in recent years

James Harden is another player that will not play in the FIBA World Cup.

Earlier this summer, Harden informed Team USA's head coach Gregg Popovich that he would not be participating in the Team USA festivities. He told Popovich he is missing both the training camp and World Cup later this summer.

Harden made his decision due to wanting to prepare/focus on the Rockets' upcoming season. The Rockets will look different this year, as they acquired his former OKC Thunder teammate Russell Westbrook. So, Harden and the Rockets must prepare for the new backcourt partnership, as they strive towards another championship run.

Throughout the years, Harden played for Team USA twice. He played for USA at the 2012 Summer Olympics, then again at the 2014 FIBA World Cup. Harden and Team USA won gold medals at both events.

In the 2012 Olympics, Harden averaged 5.5 points. His role was not as significant as this team featured players such as Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, and Kobe Bryant. Durant led the team in scoring with 19.5 points and averaged 5.8 rebounds. Anthony averaged 16.3 points and 4.8 rebounds. James and Bryant also scored in double figures with 13.3 and 12.1 points respectively. Kevin Love also scored in double figures with 11.6 points. Besides that, none of the other players (including Harden) scored in double figures.

Harden's role increased in the 2014 World Cup, as he scored 14.2 points and 3.2 assists. He helped the team as they won the gold medal in Spain. Team USA beat Serbia 129-92 to win gold. Harden had 23 points in that game.

James Harden is a skilled player who can score at will. Team USA would benefit from his expertise, but he wants to focus on the season. It may be his best move.