USA handed massive blow as two stars set to miss World Cup

Drummond, Harrell latest Americans to withdraw from World Cup [Courtesy]

Detroit Pistons pivot Andre Drummond and Los Angeles strong winger Clippers Montrezl Harrel have withdrawn for the World Basketball Cup (August 31-September 15), announced Thursday USA Basketball.

Drummond, the NBA's best rebounder in the last two seasons, and Harrel, a revelation of the Clippers last year, are leaving two vacant places in the American racket.

On July 27, USA Basketball announced the addition of Bam Adebayo, the Miami Heat 4-5, to the list of pre-selected players for the competition.

The two interiors are added to the long list of leading NBA players who will not defend the colours of their country in China. In recent weeks, Lebron James and Anthony Davis (Los Angeles Lakers), Stephen Curry (Golden State), Kawhi Leonard (Los Angeles Clippers), James Harden (Houston), Damian Lillard (Portland), DeMar DeRozan (San Antonio) or the sensational rookie Zion Williamson (New Orleans) announced their withdrawal.

These cascading packages are mostly explained by a desire to prepare for the upcoming NBA season, which looks more than ever uncertain after the disruption of many staff this summer.

Kemba Walker (Boston), Donovan Mitchell (Utah), Kyle Lowry (Toronto), still on the list of 15 pre-selected, will be the spearhead of the US selection to try to get the world title.

The final selection of legendary coach Gregg Popovich, reduced to 12 players, will be announced on August 17.

The "Team USA" is two reigning world champions (2010 and 2014) and remains on three consecutive Olympic gold medals (2008, 2012 and 2016).