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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The FIBA World Cup is right around the corner and Team USA is the name on everyone’s lips currently. Although they have a good roster to represent the country, there are significant absentees and this has caused a stir across the NBA world. One of the biggest names missing from the roster is Atlanta Hawks star guard Trae Young. With the team lacking experience and some flair, many fans expected Ice Trae to play his first-ever World Cup.

Young is currently signed into Adidas. Interestingly, it seems like NBA veteran Gilbert Arenas is quite sure that Adidas’ rivals are behind Young’s snub.

NBA veteran offers a unique take on Trae Young snub

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Team USA has historically dominated competitions like the World Cup and the Olympics. One of the biggest reasons is the sheer number of elite talent available at their disposal.

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There has been a lot of scrutiny about the team going to represent the United States of America in the Philippines later this month. Trae Young, who fits the player’s profile going to the World Cup, was snubbed by the team.

According to Gilbert Arenas, this is a result of his association with Adidas. In fact, the 3-times NBA All-Star feels $31 billion worth Nike has a direct hand behind Young’s snub.

“It’s that sorry a** other brand! It’s that other brand, it’s that other brand, man! They be doing too MFing much!”, said the NBA veteran.

Having recently released a sneaker with Adidas, Young has become the face of the brand. However, considering that players like Damian Lillard and James Harden, who are signed to Adidas, have played in the World Cup in the past, Arenas’ explosive claims might not reflect the truth.

Young would ‘love’ to play for his country

There is no denying Trae Young is one of the best talents in the league currently. He will certainly be an asset to Team USA at the World Cup. Interestingly, even the Atlanta Hawks star feels so.

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During a podcast with Arenas, Young talked about his aspirations. “I’d be happy to, obviously, I’d love to play, but I respect the OGs and understand you need to take your turn, but I believe that I should be on there”, said the 2-times NBA All-Star.

Now that the team has already released its roster and has also started training, Young has to wait for his big moment. The Summer Olympics is set to take place next year and the Hawks star should have his eyes set on that.

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What are your thoughts about Team USA? Let us know in the comments below.