There was a lot of buzz when it was revealed that the Philippines would host all of Team USA’s 2023 FIBA World Cup games. Some NBA players visit the Philippines virtually every year for promotional events, but it’s unusual for the country to host an NBA team.
Many, though, are wondering who will actually play. It’s easy to be foolish when making predictions, yet we can still make some intelligent judgments now while we’re still waiting for the FIBA World Cup 2023 betting odds. The following NBA All-Stars almost certainly will play in this year’s FIBA World Cup.
Tyrese Haliburton
The Indiana Pacers are entertaining, but they will probably miss the playoffs this year. That gives us hope that their star player, Tyrese Haliburton, will be free during the summer of 2020.
This year, Haliburton has emerged as the Pacers’ primary playmaker, and he has a legitimate shot of being named to the All-Star squad. His skill set is extremely versatile. Haliburton, who is six feet tall and has a good wingspan, may defend as many as three spots in the FIBA competition.
In the United States, he ranks among the top defensive players. In addition, he can be an effective offensive player without the ball. Haliburton was not even considered for the 2021 Olympic team, but he will likely be one of the most talked-about Americans when Team USA begins picking players in 2020.
Zion Williamson
There is a lot to gain for the number one pick in this year’s NBA Draft if he or she helps Team USA dominate the international competition. Williamson is widely regarded as a star of the NBA of the future. However, at the moment, his public image may use some work.
The most obvious issue is Williamson’s history of injuries. The New Orleans Pelicans or Williamson’s representatives might be wary of the potential dangers of playing competitive offseason basketball given that he has missed more NBA games than he has played.
Mikal Bridges
When it comes to playing defense, Bridges is among the best in the world. He has been an important part of the Phoenix Suns’ recent success. He has the potential to be an excellent bench weapon for Team USA as a designated defender and shooter.
There has been no news in the past few months regarding the possibility of Bahamian Deandre Ayton becoming a citizen of the United States and playing for Team USA. Both Devin Booker and Chris Paul have won Olympic gold. The Sun most likely to suit up in 2023 is Bridges.
Scottie Barnes
If the Toronto Raptors make the playoffs, Barnes might have a lot of free time on his hands during the winter. Barnes is having a rough 2022-2023 season when he was widely anticipated to make a significant improvement. The former fourth-overall pick might find playing for Team USA to be just what he needs to improve his stock and add to his game.
The United States of America would benefit from having a big forward like Barnes, who is capable of defending smaller, faster guards, grabbing offensive rebounds, and facilitating plays. Barnes’s height alone would give him an advantage in many confrontations.
Ja Morant
The Memphis Grizzlies’ All-Star may be the main attraction for Team USA in the upcoming tournament. He is the most fascinating American player right now, and he’s only 23 years old. Since Ja was notably left off of Team USA’s first 2021 Olympic squad, 2023 may be his best chance to shine for the United States.
The length of the Grizzlies’ playoff run is the only potential stumbling block. They’re loaded with talented young players ready to once again dominate the Western Conference. It’s possible that Morant will be too tired to play in the World Cup if the Grizzlies and Conley lead them to the NBA Finals or even just the Western Conference Finals.
Final thoughts
So far, the names on the list have been taken from actual history. Other NBA greats like Brook Lopez, Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Jarrett Allen, Even Mobley, and many more are expected to participate in the FIBA World Cup in 2023.
It’s expected that by 2023, the roster will have more American basketball superstars. What this means is that the FIBA World Cup 2023 betting odds are still yet to be finalized until then.