Boston Celtics fans were overjoyed when their team won their 18th NBA title in June. However, amidst the celebration, there was some discontent brewing within the team. Superstar Kawhi Leonard made the decision to withdraw from Team USA’s Olympic basketball competition, and Celtics guard Derrick White was named as his replacement. While this news didn’t seem to bother most people, it struck a chord with Jaylen Brown, Leonard’s Celtics teammate.
After the announcement, Jaylen Brown seemed to be affected by the fact that he didn’t make Team USA’s roster. His disappointment was evident, and it was clear that he felt snubbed. In response to the news, Brown posted a cryptic message on social media, consisting of three monocle-clad emojis. This post left fans and fellow players wondering about his true feelings and motivations.
Despite not making the Olympic team, Brown had an impressive 2023-24 regular season. He earned his third All-Star nod by averaging 23 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. However, it was during the postseason that Brown truly shined. He averaged 23.9 points per game and had four 30-plus-point games. Not only did he win the Eastern Conference Finals MVP, but he also took home the Finals MVP trophy. This marked the third consecutive year that a Conference Finals MVP also won the Finals MVP award.
Derrick White, on the other hand, had a solid regular season with average numbers of 15.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game. While these stats may not have stood out, White’s contributions were recognized by the Celtics. They rewarded him with a $125.9 million contract extension during the offseason.
As Team USA gears up for their Olympic competition, they are led by basketball superstars like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant. They will begin their journey by facing Canada in Las Vegas. However, one notable absence from the team is Kawhi Leonard. Leonard decided not to participate in Team USA’s quest for a fourth consecutive gold medal.
The U.S. team’s Olympic competition is set to begin against Serbia in Lille, France on July 28. With Curry making his Summer Games debut, the Americans are determined to continue their winning streak and secure another gold medal.
In conclusion, while the Boston Celtics may have celebrated their NBA title, tensions arose when Jaylen Brown was left off the Team USA roster. Brown’s impressive performances during the regular season and playoffs solidified his status as a star player. Meanwhile, Derrick White’s contributions were acknowledged by the Celtics with a significant contract extension. As Team USA embarks on their Olympic journey, they will do so without Kawhi Leonard, but with a powerhouse lineup led by LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant.
