By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
Deni Avdija couldn’t help Israel in the August FIBA World Cup qualifiers, and his national team, with a 2-6 record in Group I, has no chance of qualifying for the 2027 FIBA World Cup despite four games still to be played during the season.
While many other marquee players competing in the EuroLeague were also missing, Avdija explained on his social media why he was absent.
Simply put, coming off an injury, Portland expectedly didn’t give him their blessing to play, a similar situation to that of Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Greek national team, with the Greek Freak also finishing the season injured and missing the qualifiers.
As Avdija wrote: “I usually don’t feel the need to explain myself, but this time it’s important to me to say a few words. Anyone who knows me and my way with the Israeli national team knows what this shirt means to me. I came to the team when I was in pain. I came when I wasn’t at 100%. I came during summers when maybe the ‘right’ thing for my personal career was to rest. I came even when I was facing a contract year, a time when any injury could change a career. I never looked for an excuse not to show up. On the contrary. As long as I could wear Israel’s shirt and step onto the court, I was there.
This time, I wanted to be there just as much. But this summer I dealt with a complex back injury. An injury that those who haven’t gone through it really can’t understand what it demands, and the decision not to participate in this window wasn’t one I made alone. Portland wasn’t willing to take a risk with my health, and in the situation that arose, I simply didn’t have the option to step up and play.
I understand disappointment. I understand criticism. When you represent a country, and there are expectations of you, that’s part of it, and I accept that. But one thing I’m not willing to have questioned is my commitment to the national team and my country. I don’t need to tell you how much I care. I think I’ve proven it time and again with actions. There’s nothing I want more than to be healthy, get back on the court, and wear Israel’s shirt again. And until then, even when I can’t be on the floor, my heart is there”.
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