Phoenix Suns star Chris Paul reportedly declined an invitation to join Team USA for the Tokyo Olympics this summer, but apparently, he seriously considered it before opting out.

According to Team USA Director Jerry Colangelo, he initially thought Paul was out before the Suns veteran told him he is reconsidering it. The sports executive then shared that he waited for CP3's decision until the 36-year-old caught COVID-19 during the 2021 playoffs.

Per Colangelo, Paul's positive COVID-19 test “knocked him out” and they just had to move on as they built the roster that will represent the nation in the Summer Games in Tokyo.

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For what it's worth, this is probably the reason why there were some confusion on Chris Paul's decision to join Team USA. To recall, Shams Charania of The Athletic first reported that the Suns playmaker was planning to commit to the national team, only for Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN to debunk it and share that Paul is not participating.

It definitely looked like Paul had plans for Team USA. Unfortunately, COVID-19 happened.

However, it is still good news for Paul and the Suns, as they can keep their focus on their bid to win the NBA title. CP returned to the team for Game 4 of their Western Conference Finals series with the Los Angeles Clippers, and he was pivotal in helping the team secure a 3-1 lead.

With the Suns aiming to be the last team standing come July, it would have been difficult for Paul anyway had he decided to join the national team given the short distance between the NBA Finals and Tokyo Olympics.