NBA News Roundup, Sunday, August 18th: Dwight Howard could replace DeMarcus Cousins in L.A., another Team USA withdrawal and more

By Tristan Elliott

Modified Nov 08, 2022 11:44 GMT

Dwight Howard continues to be linked with the Los Angeles Lakers

De'Aaron Fox becomes the latest star to withdraw from Team USA

De'Aaron Fox is a key member of a talented Sacramento Kings roster

Much of the NBA's top talent quickly made themselves unavailable for Team USA's upcoming World Cup campaign, and an already underwhelming squad has subsequently been hit with several withdrawals. Both P.J. Tucker and Marvin Bagley III dropped out earlier this week, and ESPN is reporting that De'Aaron Fox has become the latest name to withdraw:

In a surprising move, Sacramento Kings point guard De'Aaron Fox has withdrawn from Team USA, managing director Jerry Colangelo told ESPN on Saturday.

Fox played in Friday night's exhibition victory over Spain, and the young guard had been among the standout performers during scrimmages.

Fox's withdrawal leaves Gregg Popovich with just 13 players as he prepares to take his team to Australia. The legendary coach must trim his roster to 12 ahead of the World Cup later this month.