http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/sports/2001883952_sonireport20.html Both cited fatigue as their main concern. Why can't Yao also get a break down the road?
If I were Ray Allen I would stay home with my pregnant wife over playing in the Olympics. Family comes first. I respect that. How can one find fault with that? With that said, I think a lot of the stars are leary about the security at the Olympics and the threat of terrorist acts. Can't say I blaim them. Additionally I think a lot of players just dont want to put their bodies through more rigor when they can rest for next season.
