Some players have opted out citing the need for rest after a grueling NBA season. Others have said they might not participate because of concerns regarding the Zika virus. But Draymond Green, the Saginaw native, former Michigan State basketball standout, and current Golden State Warriors power forward, will represent the United States at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
Green's participation was widely expected, but USA Basketball made it official on Sunday when it announced its official 12-man roster, led by longtime Duke coach Mike Kryzsewski.
There are two notable absences, however: Cleveland's LeBron James and Green's teammate Stephen Curry, who led their teams to NBA titles in 2015 and 2016, respectively.
Other stars making the trip include Oklahoma City's Kevin Durant, Cleveland's Kyrie Irving and New York's Carmelo Anthony.
Several outlets reported earlier this month that while Zika may be a concern for some athletes, Greenwon't let it keep him from competing for a medal.
Green is earning a reputation as one of the best players ever to emerge from Michigan State. He helped the program to two Final Four appearances in his four years, and even gifted the MSU athletic department$3.1 million in September 2015.
The national team will train for the Olympics in Las Vegas before embarking on a tour of pre-game exhibitions in Las Vegas, Oakland, Los Angeles, Chicago and Houston. The 2016 Summer Olympics will run from August 5 through August 21.
