Life took an unexpected turn for Bradley Beal. It is that I was looking forward to representing the legendary United States jersey in an Olympic competition and finally, days before the start of the Games, the one that was under the orders of Gregg popovich In Las Vegas had to abandon ship because of the Covid-19.
Bradley Beal, a sensitive loss for the Dream Team ahead of the Games (AP photo)
The United States basketball team lost one of his figures after it became known that the escort of the Wizards was included in the health protocols by coronavirus.
Although it is not known if he has indeed been infected, the 28-year-old player He was isolated under the prevention measures and in the last hours it was established that he will not be able to be part of the delegation that travels to Japan to defend the triple Olympic crown.
“Since he was a child, this has been a dream for him, and he was playing very well.” the coach announced after the name of the affected person was released. “It is devastating for him and for his family.”
Beal came from a brilliant season with the Washington team, with which he managed to be the second highest scorer in the NBA with 31.3 points per game; 4.7 rebounds and 4.4 assists, in back of Stephen Curry (which reaped 32 points on average but withdrew from the Games).
Therefore, the Dream team he lost one of his most powerful weapons, which had been winning the title (average of 10.3 points in the three friendlies in Las Vegas) and even in the last match -Victory with Argentina by 108-80- managed to become the top scorer of his team with 17 units.
Undoubtedly, the loss means a huge disappointment both for the country and for who it was. All Star for the third time; earned a spot in the All NBA and, above all, he had the illusion of wearing the Yankee shirt with the largest (he had already done it long ago, with the U-16 and U-17).
The Washington Wizards guard was the second leading scorer of the season (AP photo)
The other basketball player who also had to be isolated is Jeramy grant, the eaves of the Detroit Pistons, Although the authorities would not consider it ‘risky’ and it could be available to play in the Games, which will begin on July 23 in Japan.
Replacement and missing
However, Popovich is already thinking about the alternatives to replace Beal, which range between some of the youth team (Select Team), of which Darius Garland, Keldon Johnson and Saddiq Bey are part, who have already alternated in the friendlies – although not any new incorporation is discarded.
It should be remembered that they still need to join Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday (from Milwaukee bucks) Y Devin Booker (from Phoenix suns), who are affected by the NBA Finals.
Depending on the health alarm within the Yankee squad, the match with Australia scheduled for this Friday was suspended ‘As a precaution, Team USA will close their high school with a final match scheduled for Sunday and then travel to Tokyo, where they will make their debut for France on July 25.