Why don't Kobe, Odom and others participate in the World Championships?

Kobe Bryant can't attend the World Championships in Japan in August because of knee endoscopic surgery, but he may go with the team.

Odom was absent because his son died of suffocation.

Pistons core player Billups will not participate in the World Championships with the team in order to take care of his wife who is about to give birth.

Reed of the Bucks will also miss the World Championships, because he will complete a lifelong event with his girlfriend this summer.

Defendant: McGrath.