Nikola Jokić’s recent performance has been excellent throughout the past year. He had a rigorous season with the Serbian national team in EuroBasket and a demanding championship win with the Denver Nuggets until June. His scoring and leadership ability helped the Nuggets win their first championship.
International players often feel a strong pull to represent their nation in various tournaments. But this time Jokic has reportedly decided not to represent Serbia in the FIBA World Championship, even after attempts of convincing from his teammate Bogdanovic.
Nikola Jokic will miss out on FIBA World Cup
Serbian NBA champion, Nikola Jokic, has decided not to participate in the upcoming FIBA World Cup for the Serbian national team. He decided to give more importance to giving his body a rest during the summer. Despite efforts from coach Svetislav Pesic and teammate Bogdan Bogdanovic to persuade the two-time NBA MVP, Jokic stood firm on his decision.
This absence may prove to be a significant setback for the Serbian team, as forward Nikola Kalinic from Barcelona also opted out of the World Cup, and Vasilije Micic, recently signed by the Oklahoma City Thunder, remains doubtful to join the team. While the official Serbian team list will be released on Monday, other notable NBA stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Domantas Sabonis are also uncertain for the FIBA World Cup.
On the other hand, Luka Doncic is the only top European NBA player who has confirmed his participation in the tournament, leaving only Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Doncic from this season’s All-NBA selection teams available for the competition. The FIBA World Cup can be tough for some nations with several key players missing.
Serbia’s potential lineup for FIBA World Cup 2023
Serbia’s possible starting lineup for the 2023 FIBA World Cup is loaded with skill. Although missing out on Jokic, The Atlanta Hawks shooter Bogdan Bogdanovic has set his sights on scoring many points in the next World Cup. Aleksej Pokusevski, a dynamic forward for the Oklahoma City Thunder who is just 21 years old, has shown glimpses of greatness this season.
Having previously played for Olympiacos in the EuroLeague before being picked by the Miami Heat, Nikola Jovic, a potential forward in his early 20s, brings a sense of young energy and enthusiasm to the team. Nemanja Bjelica, a seven-year NBA veteran who has won a championship with the Golden State Warriors, is a huge addition. Serbia’s chances at the FIBA World Cup 2023 are definitely exciting due to its team’s depth.
