Kevin Durant available to play in Major U.S. opener against Serbia

The most pressing query concerning the U.S. men’s basketball ensemble as they prepare for the impending Olympics has been resolved: Kevin Durant will indeed grace the court for Team USA’s initial Group C contest against Serbia, scheduled for Sunday at 11:15 a.m. ET as confirmed by an official communiqué from USA Basketball.

Kevin Durant available :

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Kelvin Durant having been side line due to a calf strain sustained in June, has been absent from all five of the U.S.’s preparatory encounters prior to the Paris games. The extent of his effectiveness and the duration of his play remain uncertain, particularly in the early stages. Nonetheless, Durant has participated in practices and a scrimmage earlier in the week, with coach Steve Kerr expressing optimism regarding his star player’s condition, stating, “I’m confident we’ll have everybody ready.”

Despite his injury, Durant has been endeavoring to absorb the ambiance and spirit of the event.

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“It’s been incredible,” Durant remarked. “I mean, I haven’t played yet, but just being on the sideline, on the bench, I’ve got more energy than I’ve had in the past. I hate not playing, but just watching these guys, how they operate, it’s just been incredible.”

Durant’s return cannot be overstated in its significance to a U.S. squad aiming for a momentous fifth consecutive gold medal in Paris. As the all-time leading scorer for the U.S. men’s team and a three-time Olympic gold medallist, Durant is striving to become the first player to claim four Olympic men’s basketball golds. In a tournament field brimming with NBA talent, Durant’s scoring prowess and versatility will be pivotal in a successful defence of the gold medal — a reality fully recognized by the star-studded roster alongside him.