Report: LaMarcus Aldridge says he's not available for FIBA World Cup
LaMarcus Aldridge told USA Basketball that he will not participate in the FIBA Basketball World Cup, according to USA Today Sports' Jeff Zillgitt.
Zillgitt relayed the news from USA Basketball Chairman Jerry Colangelo.
Colangelo on Monday announced the 19-man roster for the USA Men's National Team. Only 12 players will be selected for the World Cup, which is being held in Spain and runs from Aug. 30 to Sept. 14.
In January, Aldridge was named to the 2014-16 Men's National Team Pool and indicated in May that he would participate in the World Cup, according to The Oregonian.
"I've always heard great things about it," Aldridge said then. "It's a great experience to have, and you learn a lot of things from it. I am looking forward to it."
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Aldridge, 28, averaged 23.2 points and 11.1 rebounds last season for the Portland Trail Blazers, who won 54 games and earned the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference before falling to San Antonio in the second round of the playoffs.
The three-time All-Star will become a free agent next summer, but is expected to sign a maximum contract extension to stay in Portland.
