Current, Former Suns Who Will Compete in FIBA World Cup
Though it's not quite time for Phoenix Suns basketball, fans can tune into the 2023 FIBA World Cup and see some familiar faces - both old and new - representing their countries in hopes of capturing gold.
"The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 will begin Aug. 25 with 32 countries from around the world competing for the coveted Naismith trophy and a shot at national glory. The tournament, which runs from Aug. 25 to Sept. 10, is being held in the Philippines, Japan and Indonesia," wrote NBA.com.
Currently, the only active member of the Suns participating is Yuta Watanabe, who is representing Japan, who qualified as co-hosts. Watanabe recently signed a two-year, $5 million deal with Phoenix in the offseason after playing for the Brooklyn Nets.
Speaking of the Nets, two former Suns in Mikal Bridges and Cam Johnson will be representing the United States in their hopes of winning the tournament for a third time in the last four years. They were the two crucial pieces sent back to Brooklyn in the trade for Kevin Durant.
Additionally, Jock Landale will be one of many NBA players representing Australia come tournament time. Landale had his qualifying offer pulled ahead of free agency, making him an unrestricted free agent. He signed a four-year, $32 million deal with the Houston Rockets.
Australia made the semifinals of the 2019 FIBA World Cup, and Landale hopes to push the Boomers to new heights.
Teams with no rosters announced: Angola, South Sudan, Jordan.
Teams with no NBA players: Puerto Rico, New Zealand, Egypt, Mexico, Cape Verde, Venezuala, Cote d'Ivoire, Iran, Lebanon
