Citing family concerns, Boston Celtics point guard Rajon Rondo withdrew from Team USA Tuesday, leaving the team with the 12-man roster it needs heading into the World Championship.
“Rajon came to us and said he was going to withdraw from the team, that he had some family matters to attend to and some things to take care of before the NBA season. He did an outstanding job during our training, we appreciate the effort and commitment he made to our program and he completely has our support,” said Team USA Chairman Jerry Colangelo.
Rondo had two points on 1 of 4 shooting, one assist and four turnovers in Saturday’s win over Lithuania. He and Tyson Chandler were replaced in the starting lineup by Derrick Rose and Lamar Odom in Sunday’s game against Spain. Rondo did not play at all in that game.
“I think I’m on the bubble,” Rondo told ESPN.com’s Chris Sheridan. “Just looking at the obvious — I got a DNP last game. That pretty much speaks for itself.”
Rondo’s withdrawal leaves Team USA with five pure guards: Rose, Chauncey Billups, Stephen Curry, Russell Westbrook and Eric Gordon.
The USA World Championship Team will complete their exhibition tour facing Greece in Athens on Wednesday (12 noon EDT). The U.S. will then travel to Istanbul on Aug. 26 and train prior to starting the World Championship.
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