Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic will reportedly not be joining the Serbian national team in the upcoming 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, which will be held primarily in the Philippines from August 25 to July 10, according to Serbian news outlet Mozzart Sport.
Jokic is coming off an NBA championship campaign last season, leading the Nuggets to their first championship since entering the league 47 years ago after the ABA-NBA merger.
The 6-foot-11 Serbian dazzled during the playoff campaign, winning the NBA Finals MVP after beating the Miami Heat in six games in the Finals, breaking numerous records in the process.
Jokic previously represented Serbia during the 2016 FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament, where he was named the MVP.
He also suited up for his country during the 2016 Summer Olympics in Brazil, the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup in China, EuroBasket 2022, and the qualification games for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Serbia will also miss the services of Vasilije Micic, who was signed by the Oklahoma City Thunder, and FC Barcelona Bàsquet star Nikola Kalinic.
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Luka Doncic remains the premier player left in World Cup
Dallas Mavericks and Slovenia superstar Luka Doncic is the remaining big-name who will play in the upcoming tournament.
Team USA's roster does not have an All-NBA selection, and all of the big names from the country withdrew from consideration. Their roster is full of young players with a few All-Star appearances between them.
Meanwhile, Giannis Antetokounmpo of Greece, Victor Wembanyama, Joel Embiid of France, and Rui Hachimura of Japan will also miss the tournament.
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