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#4 Anthony Davis
The Lakers' newest star will not be participating in the World Cup. According to reports, Anthony Davis has withdrawn from Team USA. His agent Rich Paul (of Klutch Sports) confirmed his decision.
Davis has had an exciting offseason as he joined a new team. On June 15, the Lakers and Pelicans agreed to a deal that sent Davis to the Lakers. The Pelicans received Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart, and three first-round draft picks. One of those picks was the No. 4 pick of the 2019 draft. In return, the Lakers received Davis, who wanted to join them before last season's trade deadline. The teams agreed to a deal in June, but it did not become official until July 6. Now, Davis has his wish and will join LeBron James in LA.
Davis decided to withdraw from Team USA due to his desire to use the offseason as a chance to prepare for the season. He wants to use this time to get ready for a potential championship run as the Lakers are a favorite to win.
So, Davis will use this time to focus on that.
The 6-foot-10 forward/center played for Team USA during the 2012 Summer Olympics and the 2014 World Cup. He averaged 3.7 points in the Olympics and played a total of seven games. He had a small role as he was entering the league and did not start any game. Davis was the first pick of the 2012 draft and was on a team of veterans. So, his limited role made sense.
Then, he averaged 12.3 points and 6.6 rebounds during the World Cup. He played in nine games and started in each of them. If Davis remained with Team USA, he'd likely have a significant role.
Davis is a skilled forward, who would have contributed to Team USA in numerous ways. But, his decision to withdraw makes sense as all eyes are on the Lakers next season.
