Durant was seen training with considerable enthusiasm alongside his teammates yesterday, and it appears likely that he will make his debut in this exhibition phase leading up to the Paris Games. Since his injury on 6 July in Las Vegas, the player has been absent from the preparatory games. The team's coach, Steve Kerr, now hopes to include him in today’s match against South Sudan or the one on Monday against Germany, both at the O2 Arena in London.

"I’d love for him to play in one of those games, but we need to assess how he progresses day by day, so we’ll see how he feels tomorrow. We’re just going to proceed with abundant caution," Kerr said in a press conference after the latest training session. The coach expressed optimism as he observed that the Suns star has returned to activity showing positive signs and nearing his normal physical state.

Durant himself detailed to journalists the types of movements and exercises he can handle and which ones still need improvement. The player is in no rush to don the USA jersey today, as his intention, according to him, is to assist the team when it is most needed. Having recovered from the muscle issues, he acknowledges that “while there are always concerns, he has been confirming his daily progress.”

In top form, the NBA forward is one of the most decisive figures in basketball. This is also understood by his teammate LeBron James, who believes Durant always brings more power, leadership, and experience to the national team’s game. "We welcome his return. We’re looking forward to him getting back out there, as it will make us much stronger."

The uncertainty surrounding his return date had led to speculation about a possible absence from the Paris Olympics. However, the news of his participation in the pre-Olympic friendlies provides reassurance to the US squad. In London, it will be confirmed whether the player is ready to fully rejoin the team. So far, the United States has maintained a perfect record of 3-0 in their preparatory matches, with victories over Canada, Australia, and Serbia.

The NBA star is on the brink of becoming the first male athlete in the world to win four Olympic golds in a team sport. With medals from London, Rio de Janeiro, and Tokyo already in his collection, the Phoenix Suns forward will aim to stand atop the Parisian podium with the United States team on 10 August to become the undisputed king.

Durant is one of the leading voices within the group, alongside Stephen Curry and LeBron James. If coach Steve Kerr manages to establish the ideal dynamic, this team has the potential to be truly unstoppable at the Paris 2024 Games. They will face Serbia in their first game of the tournament on 28 July.