25 Aug 2010

Rondo out of world champs

10:36 am on 25 August 2010

The Boston Celtics guard Rajon Rondo has withdrawn from the U.S. national basketball team for family reasons, clearing the way for the final world championship roster to be set.

Rondo had started two exhibition games but did not play in Monday's win over Spain.

With Rondo's withdrawal, the team was able to finalize their roster to 12 players before the world championships get underway in Turkey this weekend.

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant leads the team.

Other forwards are Rudy Gay (Memphis Grizzlies), Danny Granger (Indiana Pacers) and Andre Iguodala (Philadelphia 76ers).

Joining Chauncey Billups (Denver Nuggets) at guard are Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors), Eric Gordon (Los Angeles Clippers), Derrick Rose (Chicago Bulls) and Russell Westbrook (Oklahoma City).

Centers are Tyson Chandler(Dallas Mavericks), Kevin Love (Minnesota Timberwolves) and Lamar Odom (Los Angeles Lakers).