Serbia to be without star player Nikola Jokic at FIBA World Cup

• Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic is set to miss the 2023 FIBA World Cup
• Jokic plays for the Serbia national team and is one of their best players
• The NBA star stated the reason to miss the tournament is to rest after demanding postseason

Denver Nuggets star player, Nikola Jokic, has made the decision not to represent the Serbia national team in the upcoming FIBA World Cup. Coach Svetislav Pesic announced this development, stating that Jokic needs rest after a demanding postseason run with the Nuggets.

Throughout the previous season, Jokic played a staggering 89 games, including playoff matches, to help lead the Nuggets to their first-ever NBA title victory. This intensive workload has taken a toll on the two-time MVP, who has accumulated a total of 288 regular-season games since the 2019-20 season, ranking him ninth in the league for games played during that period.

According to Pesic, discussions with Jokic regarding his participation in the national team were some of the most candid and respectful conversations he’s had with players who couldn’t join the roster. Jokic expressed that he is currently experiencing physical and mental exhaustion, which leaves him feeling unprepared to take on the responsibility of competing in the World Cup.

Denver Nuggets star Nikola Jokic will not play in the 2023 FIBA World Cup for his nation, Serbia. | PHOTO: ESPN |

READ: Nikola Jokic, Serbia’s best professional basketball player

Another significant absence from the Serbian national team will be Vasilije Micic, a star player who recently signed a three-year deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Both Micic and Jokic will be notable omissions for the team, as they have been key contributors in the past.

Over the years, Jokic has represented the Serbian national team on three occasions, participating in the 2016 and 2019 FIBA World Cups and most recently playing in Eurobasket last summer. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, considering his immense talent and impact on the court.

The FIBA World Cup, scheduled to begin on August 25, will be hosted across three countries: the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia. The tournament holds significant importance as it will determine seven berths for the 2024 Olympics to be held in Paris.

Despite the absence of Jokic and Micic, the Serbian national team will still aim to put forth a competitive roster in hopes of achieving success in the FIBA World Cup. Their performance in the tournament will be closely watched, especially given their track record of strong basketball prowess.

As for Jokic, taking the time to rest and recover from the rigorous NBA season is a wise decision. He has consistently been a dominant force for the Nuggets, and preserving his physical and mental well-being is crucial for his long-term performance and overall health.

While fans may be disappointed not to see Jokic in action for the Serbian national team, they can take comfort in knowing that his decision is made with the best intentions for both himself and his team. As one of the NBA’s most talented and beloved players, Jokic’s presence will be missed, but his dedication to rest and preparation for future challenges is commendable.