Giannis Antetokounmpo, the star player from the Milwaukee Bucks and Greece’s national team, unfortunately won’t be able to participate in the upcoming FIBA World Cup 2023.
Giannis shared the news on his social media, revealing that he’s still recovering from a knee procedure he underwent on July 5.
The basketball community had been hopeful about his participation in the tournament set to begin on August 25.
“Everyone knows my passion and love for my National Team has and never will change. Since the conclusion of my NBA season, I have been pushing my body to the limits to be the player I need to be to help our team achieve the goals we set.
But after months of work and multiple meetings with medical staff, it is clear that I am not ready to compete at the level that I need to be to participate in the World Cup. This was not a choice but my only option in ensuring I get back to the level of basketball I have worked so hard to achieve so far in my career.
I am extremely disappointed in this outcome, but this was a decision made by the medical staff. I’m going to continue to push myself to be ready for the next time my name is called. My personal, and our ultimate team goal is to qualify for the 2024 Olympics Games, and it will be an honor to represent my National Team next year.”
Giannis is still recovering from an arthroscopy on his knee underwent on July 5. All this time, he had remained doubtful for the next major basketball event, starting on August 25