LeBron James has yet to decide if he will be suiting up for USA Basketball in the coming 2016 Rio Olympics, but the belief now is that the Cleveland Cavaliers star may have more reason not to.
A reason seen for such is the exclusion of Kobe Bryant, who was not on the final list of candidates to compose the club. A final stint of Bryant on Team USA would have been grand, but Bryant himself made way for younger players instead.
Such came about when James and Bryant met for the final time in Cleveland recently where another emotion-filled game was held.
Even though both were known as fierce competitors, the fact remains that both had utter respect for the other. James was saddened when Bryant announced his retirement and later on added that he wanted to be like Bryant.
James and Bryant were teammates for USA Basketball back in 2008 and 2012, something that made the two closer. While they seem like rivals on the court, Bryant did explain that the two are closer than most think.
Right now, it remains to be seen if James would pass up a slot because Bryant is not included. Even though it does take away the opportunity for James to play side-by-side with Bryant for one last time, it may all totally boil down to what James truly wants to do in the offseason.
If ever he does pass on representing the USA, it could be for another reason other than Bryant not being there. James may want to take some time off and may be indulged in several businesses and possible commitments, something that held him back from the last USA Basketball camp in Las Vegas.
With or without James, team USA is a favorite to win the gold; but having the Cavs star forward around should make it easier and sweeter, of course.
