Despite likely being in the midst of a busy offseason, New Orleans Pelicans prized man Anthony Davis is hoping to make himself available to join a multitude of NBA stars for the upcoming FIBA World Cup.
“Yes, I plan to play,” he said to the FIBA World Basketball television program. “I like playing for USA Basketball, playing for the USA team, representing my country, so I plan on playing.”
The Americans have largely qualified for this major event with the help of G League and overseas players under interim coach Jeff Van Gundy, who led Team USA to clinch a spot in the tournament after a Reggie Hearn buzzer-beater over Argentina.
Davis has played small roles early in his international career, first as a back-of-the-bench rookie during the 2012 London Olympics, then later as a third-year pro in the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain, averaging 12.3 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game
“Those times were very special,” said Davis of representing the USA. “I’d never played international basketball before. And 2012 (Olympics), I didn't really get to play, I was kind of like, you know, the guy who was just cheering everybody on.
“But that experience helped me in 2014, (being) able to help lead those guys and play my part, and getting me used to playing international basketball. And it was a fun experience, and just being able to represent the country and win gold, it’s something I look forward to every time.”
Davis would be there to help lead a new wave of players, as the likes of LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, and Dwyane Wade, who once led the team to glory, will no longer take part on international competition.
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