Hachimura will focus on his individual career while preparing for his first NBA free agency, he explained.
Japan is one of the hosts of the 2023 FIBA World Cup. However, they will have to compete without their biggest star.
As the Japanese Basketball Association (JBA) officially announced, Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura will miss the tournament.
After finishing the season in California, Hachimura is a restricted free agent this summer. The player has decided to focus on his individual career.
Rui Hachimura
| Team: |
Los Angeles Lakers |
| Position: | SF, PF |
| Age: | 25 |
| Height: | 206 cm |
| Weight: | 104 kg |
| Birth place: | Japan |
"I have made the decision to withdraw from this year’s FIBA World Cup. It was a very difficult decision to make but after last season and the long playoffs, I decided to give priority to my future NBA career in preparation for my first free agency," Hachimura explained.
"In addition, I will focus on training this summer and prepare my body for the next season," he continued. "I would like to thank everyone involved, the JBA, and head coach Tom Hovasse for their understanding of my decision this time. I would like to wish my teammates of the Japan national basketball team the best of luck. I'll be their number one supporter."
Hachimura last played for Japan during the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games where he averaged 22.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2 assists for 16.3 PIR.
Without Hachimura, there are 24 names remaining on the extended list for the World Cup. As hosts, Japan will compete in Group E together with Germany, Finland, and Australia.
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