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Washington Wizards SG Bradley Beal turns down spot on Team USA

By The Sports Xchange
Washington Wizards' Bradley Beal (L) grabs a rebound in front of Atlanta Hawks' Kent Bazemore (24). Photo by David Tulis/UPI
Washington Wizards' Bradley Beal (L) grabs a rebound in front of Atlanta Hawks' Kent Bazemore (24). Photo by David Tulis/UPI | License Photo

Washington Wizards shooting guard Bradley Beal became the latest player to pass on playing for Team USA in the Summer Olympics at Rio de Janeiro when he announced Friday that he declined a roster spot.

Beal, who turns 23 on Tuesday, dealt with a leg injury last season and said on his Twitter account that improving his physical condition for the 2016-17 NBA season is the top priority.

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"I could not be more grateful for the invitation to represent my country, as it is the ultimate honor, however it is with deep regret that I have declined the opportunity to participate with Team USA this summer in Rio," Beal wrote. "I have made the decision to dedicate this summer to getting in the best physical shape of my life and feel it is imperative that I stay true to my plan so I can be at my very best supporting my coaches and teammates for the upcoming season.

"I wish Team USA nothing but great success and I hope to earn another opportunity to represent my country in the near future."

Beal played in just 55 games last season and averaged 17.4 points. He becomes a restricted free agent on July 1 and the Wizards will reportedly offer him a large contract.

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Beal joins the growing list of players to turn down a spot on Team USA.

Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James declined a spot on Thursday, as did San Antonio forward Kawhi Leonard. Portland point guard Damian Lillard (foot) withdrew due to injury.

Players who previously withdrew include Golden State point guard Stephen Curry, Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook and Houston Rockets guard James Harden. Out for health reasons are LaMarcus Aldridge (San Antonio Spurs), Anthony Davis (New Orleans Pelicans), Blake Griffin (Los Angeles Clippers), Chris Paul (Clippers) and John Wall (Washington Wizards).

Still undecided is Cleveland point guard Kyrie Irving.

The team's training camp will run July 18-21 in Las Vegas. Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski is the Team USA coach and Olympic basketball competition will be held Aug. 6-21.

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