Jamal Murray has decided to not play for Team Canada in the 2023 FIBA World Cup. Murray cited the necessity to recover from last season’s long NBA title run as the reason.
“When I came into training camp, I wanted to see how my body would respond after a long and demanding season and if I would be physically able to compete at the highest level required for the World Cup,” said Murray.
“In consultation with medical staff and the team, it is clear that additional recovery is required, and I have made the difficult decision to not participate in the tournament. It’s still a dream of mine to represent Canada at the Olympics, and I will support the team every step of the way as they pursue this goal.”
Canada opens Group H play at the World Cup against France. Group H also includes Latvia, who will be without NBA star Kristaps Porzingis, and Lebanon.