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Stephen Curry Won't Be on U.S. Olympic Basketball Team in Rio — Fans React

Stephen Curry Won't Be on U.S. Olympic Basketball Team in Rio — Fans React

"I was a big fan of Steph Curry until I found out he hates America."

(TheBlaze/AP) — Stephen Curry has withdrawn from consideration for the Summer Olympics, leaving the U.S. basketball team without the NBA's MVP.

Curry said in a statement Monday that he has decided to pull out for "several factors — including recent ankle and knee injuries."

Golden State Warriors' Stephen Curry dunks the ball during a USA Basketball minicamp practice in Las Vegas on July 28, 2014. (AP Photo/John Locher)

The Warriors guard didn't say what the other factors were. Several athletes, however, have expressed concerns about the water situation in Rio and the Zika virus.

Curry is the highest-profile absence for the two-time defending gold medalists, who will already be without NBA All-Stars Chris Paul and Anthony Davis.

He has won a pair of world titles with the Americans and was a starter when they won the 2014 Basketball World Cup. He had spoken of wanting the chance to win Olympic gold but missed six games in the postseason with a right knee injury.

"My previous experiences with USA Basketball have been incredibly rewarding, educational and enjoyable, which made this an extremely difficult decision for me and my family," Curry said. "However, due to several factors — including recent ankle and knee injuries — I believe this is the best decision for me at this stage of my career."

Curry said he had spoken with his family, the Warriors and his representatives, and recently informed USA Basketball Chairman Jerry Colangelo that he would not go to Brazil.

"Obviously, we are disappointed that Steph will not be available this summer, but we understand these situations arise, and we are fully supportive of his decision," Colangelo said.

"It's an incredible honor to represent your country and wear 'USA' on your chest, but my primary basketball-related objective this summer needs to focus on my body and getting ready for the 2016-17 NBA season," Curry's statement continued.

Curry's decision to withdraw was first reported by the San Jose Mercury News.

Fans were heartbroken after hearing Monday's announcement. Some took to Twitter to voice their disappointment.

The Americans have a list of 31 players in their roster pool for this summer — and plan to name their 12-man roster later this month.

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