By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Luka Doncic previewed the 2023 FIBA World Cup alongside Vlatko Cancar in a press conference held Saturday.
The biggest news was Doncic being named captain of the Slovenia senior national team. The previous captain, Edo Muric will not play in the World Cup due to injury.
“I am honored to be the captain. The coach and the rest of the players made the decision,” explained the Dallas Mavericks superstar, “It is a pleasure to play for the national team. I have not played since April 10, so I can’t wait for the games.”
Doncic, 24, was referring to the early ending to the 2022-23 campaign of the Mavs. He averaged 32.4 points, 8.6 rebounds, 8.0 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.5 blocks per contest over 66 appearances in the Regular Season but failed to guide his side to the Playoffs.
“I am not thinking about it yet, but Dallas is on the right path,” he answered a question about the next NBA season.
Seeking World Cup gold
Introducing himself to the senior national team of his country in 2017, Doncic helped in capturing the gold medals. He has since competed in the 2020 Olympic Games and 2022 EuroBasket.
“As in every tournament, the goal is to win the championship,” he mentioned, “Last year’s failure in the EuroBasket did not make too angry, but instead motivated me. You must look ahead. We don’t care what happened last year.”
“I feel better this year,” he stressed, “It is apparent. Much praise to the fitness coach pushing me.”
Launching prep games without Doncic and other big names, the team coached by Aleksandar Sekulic edged out China last Tuesday. Up next is a home-and-away friendly series versus Greece, in Ljubljana Wednesday and in Athens Friday.
Heading to the World Cup, Slovenia will play in Group F of the preliminary round facing Venezuela, Georgia, and Cape Verde in Okinawa City.
Photo Credit: YouTube