Arrr! NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo be takin' a step back from th' FIBA World Cup to mend his peg leg!
2023-08-11
Arrr, the sorry state of Giannis Antetokounmpo's left knee this summer hath already raised doubloons about his presence for Greece in the FIBA Basketball World Cup. But this fine Friday, he hath verily confirmed that he shall not be able to set sail on the court.
In a blow to Greece's national basketball team, NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo will not be participating in this year's FIBA Basketball World Cup due to a knee injury. The Milwaukee Bucks player underwent minor surgery on his left knee earlier this summer and his medical team advised against competing. Antetokounmpo expressed his disappointment, emphasizing his passion for his national team. He has been undergoing rehab since the conclusion of the NBA season, pushing his body to its limits in order to be ready for the upcoming season. However, after months of work and multiple meetings with medical staff, it was determined that he is not yet ready to compete at the level required for the World Cup. Antetokounmpo's absence adds to the dwindling star power of this year's World Cup, with only two members of the All-NBA Team scheduled to participate. Despite this setback, Antetokounmpo remains focused on his recovery and hopes to represent Greece in the 2024 Paris Olympics. He described his decision not to play in the World Cup as his only option in ensuring a return to the high level of basketball he has achieved throughout his career. While disappointed, he is committed to pushing himself and being ready for the next opportunity to represent his country. The Bucks organization believes Antetokounmpo's knee procedure was successful and hopes he will be ready for training camp and the start of the NBA regular season in late October. Antetokounmpo led the Bucks to the NBA title last season, averaging impressive stats of 31.1 points and 11.8 rebounds. With his absence, Greece's national team will face a challenging task in the World Cup, but Antetokounmpo's return to international basketball next year will certainly be eagerly anticipated. The Associated Press contributed to this report.