Rio Olympics 2016: 5 NBA stars who will not play for USA at the Games

3) Russell Westbrook

Westbrook has been a five-team NBA All-Star

The Oklahoma City Thunders’ star has decided to withdraw his name from the USA Olympics team. He had announced his decision in June when he had said, “After speaking with my family, I have decided to not participate in this year's Olympics.

“This was not an easy decision, as representing my country at the World Championships in 2010 and the Olympics in 2012 were career highlights for me. I look forward to future opportunities as a member of USA Basketball.” The decision indicates that the 27-year old has decided to skip the Games due to the fears of the Zika virus.

The decision came as a shock to many as the 27-year was expected to feature in the Olympics. He has previously won two gold medals with the US Basketball team, having won the 2010 FIBA World Championships in Turkey and the 2012 London Olympics.

Westbrook has been a five-team NBA All-Star and has won the title of NBA All-Star game’s Most Valuable Player twice. Currently, he plays for the Oklahoma City team in the NBA and is known for his skills as a point guard. He was also picked for this year’s NBA All-Stars team, making it his second consecutive year.

Losing Westbrook just before the Olympics is a huge blow to the USA’s chances, but they still have enough firepower in their squad.