Blake Griffin withdrew from the U.S. National Basketball Team last week because of a small fracture in his back, according to a report.

Doctors advised Griffin to rest for the fracture to completely heal, sources told ESPN.com. He was also advised to sit out any competition this summer, especially the upcoming the FIBA World Championships in Spain.

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He apparently sustained the fracture during the playoffs against the Oklahoma City Thunder last season, sources say. The good news is that Griffin is expected to make a full recovery just in time for the NBA season later this year.

In a statement released last week, he said that he wanted to focus all his energy on improving himself and "preparing for the upcoming season with the Clippers."

Griffin leads the Clippers in scoring with an average of 23.5 points during the last season's NBA playoffs.

Aside from Griffin, Kevin Love also pulled out of the training camp last week citing uncertainty as to where he will be playing next. Love is at the center of a brewing trade which could materialize next month.

The Minnesota Timberwolves power forward was one of the first NBA players who committed to suit up for the national team. But his impending trade may cause a distraction during the World Championships.

His potential trade to the Cleveland Cavaliers was extended for a month after the Cavs signed top pick Andrew Wiggins. He is reportedly the team's bargaining chip and the Timberwolves appear to be interested in acquiring him.

Paul Millsap was invited to take a slot at the national team.

Team USA now has 19 players to choose from to complete its 12-man roster for the FIBA World Championships including the comeback of Chicago Bulls' Derrick Rose who "played his butt off" during Monday's scrimmage according to coach Mike Krzyzewski.

Tagsblake griffin, Kevin Love, Andrew Wiggins, Team USA, derrick rose