The upcoming game against Germany is one that Team USA and its fans have been waiting for! Not only is it the last matchup before heading to Paris, but it also provides the hoopers a chance to hit back after the Germans humiliated them during the semifinals of the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Given the importance of the matchup, the question was raised about whether Kevin Durant, the most experienced Olympian on the US squad, would return to the lineup after persistent injury problems.

Kevin Durant first developed complications with his calf in mid-June, right when he was supposed to participate in the training camp. The issue worsened in Vegas, developing into a full calf strain. In the meantime, Kawhi Leonard was withdrawn from the roster because he couldn’t recover from his right knee inflammation. However, the possibility of removing the 3x Olympic Gold medalist was not something that was entertained.

Marc J. Spears had initially reported the news that Durant would be absent during the first set of exhibition games. While Steve Kerr put out the statement, “He’s (Durant) assuring me that it’s not bad,” the 35-year-old continued to be absent. And some good news finally seems to be on the horizon. A recent segment of NBA on ESPN highlighted that Team USA will roll out Kevin Durant for the Germany game. Brian Windhorst revealed, “Kevin Durant has increased his workload over the last several days here in London with Team USA and is expected to try to play a few minutes.”

Kevin Durant was not part of the Team USA roster that competed in the 2023 FIBA World Cup. However, his current teammates Anthony Edwards and Tyrese Haliburton, were certainly in it. The duo was present as German players Andreas Obst and Franz Wagner put up 24 and 22 points respectively to put up the highest-ever points against the Hoopers.

While the 113-111 game was a close margin, it prevented the US from having a shot at Gold. And after the loss against Canada, they had to walk away without any medals. The current Team USA roster has been succeeding but by the skin of their teeth. The games against Australia and South Sudan brought their capabilities into question since both games were won by a very narrow margin. Therefore, having Kevin Durant for his final exhibition game may raise some hope for the team’s chances.

Kevin Durant’s glorious run in the Olympics

Along with LeBron James and Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant is the player upon whom the most expectations are being placed. And rightfully so. The 35-year-old currently holds the record for leading the national team’s all-time total with 435 points. Having represented the US in the 2012 London, 2016 Rio, and 2020 Tokyo Games, he has secured an average score of 19.7 points, accompanied by a record total of 146 field goals, 74 three-point field goals, and 69 free throws.

During his most recent run in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Durant averaged just under 21 points along with 5.3 rebounds and 3.7 assists. He was also named the Tournament MVP and the 2021 USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year for the 3rd time overall, because of his performance in the tournament. During the final game against France, he led the scoring effort with 29 points while going 9-18 from the field, 3-9 from deep, and 8-9 behind the free-throw line.

Kevin Durant will strive to win his fourth Olympic gold and join the exclusive bracket with Carmelo Anthony, however, this will be possible only if his ailment allows him.