NBA commissioner Adam Silver understands risk of international play
NBA commissioner Adam Silver said he understands it is a risk for players to compete for their country in international competition because of the chance for injury.
Silver's comments come after Indiana Pacers forward Paul Georgebroke his leg during a Team USA Basketball scrimmage almost three weeks ago.
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Silver said it is a player’s personal choice to play international ball. He said he isn’t concerned about players needing more incentive to play, especially during non-Olympic years.
"It is a big risk without enormous financial reward," Silver said to ESPN.com. "I should point out that it is not just U.S. players we are referring to."
The Oklahoma City Thunder's Kevin Durantwithdrew from competing this summer, citing mental and physical exhaustion. Blake Griffin, Carmelo Anthony, and LeBron James are among the other NBA stars who chose to not participate with Team USA for various reasons.
Team USA will travel to Spain on Saturday in preparation for the FIBA World Cup, which will start Aug. 30.
- Scooby Axson
