Rajon Rondo, Team USA and "the Withdrawal" (SATIRE)

(SATIRE)—Team USA management has their 12 man roster in place after "the Withdrawal" by Rajon Rondo. NBA TV was all set to send Chris Weber and Steve Smith to cover the event, but Rondo chose to take his decision to withdraw to a smaller audience.

The existing NBA contingent took a statement the day before and after "the Withdrawal" and there were no surprises.

Celtics Beat Reporter: Rajon Rondo's withdrawal was completely inline with his play and the family issues that plagued his brief tenure with Team USA.

Throughout the practices and games, Rondo's patented moves did not jive with the more offensive minded players. The trapezoid lanes and lack of defensive three second calls in international play negated his effectiveness. 

The game stagnated because the defense could clog the lane without fear of consequence.

He was forced to pay attention to the man in the mirror—namely himself. His inability to play other positions and his slight frame may have framed "the Withdrawal".  

Celtic Beat Reporter: Uh, Mr. Rondo

Rondo: You don't have to call me that, champion will do.

Celtic Beat Reporter: Huh?

Rondo: Just kidding, never mind.

Celtic Beat Reporter: So why'd you do it...you know withdraw?

Rondo: Me and KG had a conversation.

Celtic Beat Reporter: What did he say?

Rondo: Said something about Rondo Red.

Celtic Beat Reporter: Rondo Red... What?

Rondo: Yeah man, Rondo Red you don't know?

Celtic Beat Reporter: No. What is it?

Rondo: If you don't know can't tell you. I'm going to have to show you.

Rondo nods to the reporter, his hands swallowing the ball as he dribbles it up the floor. The reporter watched as the ball looks like a blur in his hands. The thought occurred to him—Rondo Red. He smiled as he signed off the air.

Celtic Beat Reporter: After registering his first DNP since his rookie season, Rondo has decided to save face and withdraw his name from consideration. His perceived dismissal from the team has probably stung his pride and may serve as additional fuel for the upcoming season.

And that Celtic fans, is the story behind "The Withdrawal".