Jamal Murray Opts For Recovery, Withdraws From FIBA World Cup After Denver's NBA Triumph

Photo: Instagram/Jamal Murray

Jamal Murray, the star guard for the Denver Nuggets, has made the decision not to participate in the upcoming FIBA Men’s Basketball World Cup, according to an announcement by Canada Basketball.

This choice comes as Murray acknowledges the need for additional recovery time after a demanding NBA season, culminating in Denver's victory in the 2023 NBA championship.

Murray shared his perspective on the matter, stating, "Upon entering training camp, I was keen on assessing how my body would react following an arduous season, and whether I could meet the rigorous demands of competing at the World Cup's highest level."
Following consultations with medical experts and the team, it has become evident that he requires further time for recovery. He expressed his continued aspiration to represent Canada in the Olympics and pledged his unwavering support for the team's pursuit of this goal.

Scheduled to occur between August 25 and September 10, the FIBA Men’s Basketball World Cup 2023 is set to feature the top 32 men’s basketball teams. The Group Phase is allocated across venues in the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia, with the Final Phase subsequently taking place in Manila, Philippines' capital city.

Related Article: Nikola Jokic Makes History As Nuggets Win First Championship, Earns Finals MVP Honors

Rowan Barrett, General Manager / Executive Vice-President of the Senior Men’s Program, highlighted the numerous conversations held with Jamal and the team's medical staff. These discussions led to the realization that additional rehabilitation would impede Jamal's participation in the forthcoming World Cup.

Canada's FIBA entry boasts notable players such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, RJ Barrett, Dillon Brooks, and the esteemed college basketball player of the year, Zach Edey. The Canadian team is assigned to Group H and is set to face France, Lebanon, and Latvia in the Group phase to be held in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Crucially, a top-two finish among the Americas' teams at the FIBA Men’s Basketball World Cup 2023 would secure a direct qualification for the Canadian men's basketball team to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Presently, Canada holds the 15th rank in the FIBA World Ranking sponsored by Nike.

Read Next: Joel Bitonio Voices Concerns Over Alleged 'Cheap Shots' During Browns-Eagles Joint Practices

Source: NBA 

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