Kyrie Irving won’t play for Australia this summer in the London Olympics and said he hopes to be a part of Team USA for 2016.
Yet Irving clarified earlier remarks about Team USA Coach Mike Krzyzewski’s future, saying he’s not certain if Coach K will lead the Americans four years from now.
“I spoke to Coach K [and] he did tell me he was coaching, but I prematurely spoke on that,” Irving, who played for Coach K at Duke last season, told the Cleveland Plain Dealer. “But I know he’s going to be part of USA Basketball. That’s the most important thing. That’s what made my decision easier.
“He’s going to be part of the USA staff anyway whether he’s coaching or not. That way it’s easy for me.”
Irving, the former Elizabeth (N.J.) St. Patrick star, was born in Australia because his father, Drederick, was playing pro ball there. He maintains dual citizenship with the U.S. and Australia.
On Monday, he announced he wouldn’t play for Australia this year because he “found out Coach K would be coaching in 2016,” the Plain-Dealer reported.
Irving, 19, will continue to play for the U.S. Select Team and hopes to join the National Team for the 2016 Olympics in Brazil.
Jerry Colangelo, chairman of USA Basketball, told ESPN there have been no discussions about naming a future coach.
“I kind of disappointed my Aussie fans,” Irving said. “It’s all about the future. It’s always been a dream of mine to play in the Olympics. It’s a good feeling to know I’m going to play for my country.”
Photo: Plain Dealer
