Zach Edey’s Team Canada, NBA Summer League Decision Leaves Fans Divided

Memphis Grizzlies rookie big man Zach Edey will not be part of the Team Canada roster for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games.

Edey, selected No. 9 overall by the Grizzlies in the 2024 NBA Draft this past week, has chosen against participating in Team Canada's training camp ahead of the Olympics to better prepare himself for his rookie season in the NBA.

He released a statement addressing the decision on Sunday.

"I have made the difficult decision of pulling myself out of the process to compete for a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with Canada," Edey said in the statement, via Sportsnet's Michael Grange . "...I have a duty now to properly prepare for all that is coming my way with being drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies...

"Thank you to Canada Basketball and all the fans for your support and understanding."

Edey, who called representing Canada in the Olympics a 'lifelong dream,' said he still looks forward to rooting on the team.

His decision, however, appears to have left the basketball world split.

Some fans understand the move given where the Grizzlies drafted him. Others, though, really wanted to see him try and earn a spot on Team Canada this summer.

"A shame - we really needed his size and post game for the international game, but I get it," one fan said.

"Big loss - given FIBA rules. Pleased to see him compete in Summer League, but Canada could have used his tools in key situations," Jeff said.

Edey, who led Purdue to the national title game this spring, won his second John R. Wooden Award earlier this year. The honor is awarded yearly to the best college basketball player in the country,

The Grizzlies are set to begin Summer League play on July 12.