USA - Knee surgery knocks Wade out of London

MIAMI (Olympics) - Dwyane Wade will not make a third straight appearance for the United States at the Olympics because of a knee injury.

The Miami Heat star, still celebrating the team’s NBA title-clinching win on 22 June, requires an operation on his injured left knee and has withdrawn from consideration.

The leading scorer on the team that captured gold at the Beijing Games, Wade said in a statement: “As many people may know, throughout the season, I struggled with a recurring knee issue.

"After the championship game, I visited with my doctors for a round of comprehensive medical tests, and the recent results dictate the need for surgery.

"While every part of me wants to be in London, I need to take this time to do what’s best to improve my health and allow me to continue to play the game I love.

"It was an honor to represent my country in 2004 and in 2008 when we won the gold medal.

"My thoughts and best wishes will travel with Team USA as they prepare to bring home the gold.”

The USA have deep pool of talent and will remain favorites to win the title, but the loss of Wade is a significant blow.

He averaged 16.0 points per game in China, where the Americans won all eight of their games.

Wade led all scorers with 27 points in the 118-107 victory over Spain in the gold-medal clash.

When the USA named their 20 finalists for the Olympic squad back in January, coach Mike Krzyzewski admitted he'd worried that Wade might not make himself available.

"I didn't say anything to him," Krzyzewski said, "but I certainly said a few prayers hoping the other guys would have an influence on him."

His teammates ultimately convinced Wade to commit to London but now he won't be able to go.

“D-Wade has a lot of equity with USA Basketball and has made great contributions to our program," said USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo.

"We’re sorry he won’t be with us this summer, but we know he’ll be with us in spirit.”

Krzyzewski added: “We’re totally supportive of Dwyane’s decision and hope that he has a full and speedy recovery.

"He has been an amazing member of USA Basketball playing in two Olympics, one World Championship, and has served the USA in such an extemporary manner.

"We’ve loved having him in our program and we’ll miss him in London."

Players vying for spots on the 12-man USA Olympic roster are: Carmelo Anthony, Chris Bosh, Kobe Bryant, Tyson Chandler, Anthony Davis, Kevin Durant, Rudy Gay, Eric Gordon, Blake Griffin, James Harden, Andre Iguodala, LeBron James, Kevin Love, Lamar Odom, Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook and Deron Williams.

FIBA