Kofi Inkoom
Latvian National Basketball Team and Boston Celtics Centre, Porzingis is ruled out of the upcoming FIBA World Cup after confirming he has plantar fasciitis.
Kristaps Porzingis’ foot injury, specifically plantar fasciitis, will hinder his complete recuperation before the imminent FIBA World Cup. This news was reported by the German journalist, Rupert Fabig, earlier today.
Even though the Latvian national team is making its inaugural appearance in the FIBA World Cup this August, they will be missing their star player.
While an official announcement from the Latvian National Basketball Team is anticipated tomorrow, Porzingis has already used his X account to validate the injury, as captured below.
“ It is difficult, I feel very responsible to myself and the supporters of the Latvian national team, but a decision has been made that I will not play in the World Cup.
After several weeks of recovery and a repeat MRI examination, the plantar fasciitis of my foot still prevents me from being on the field in full readiness.
This joint decision has been made by both the medical staff and coaching staff of the national team, as well as the Celtics team – with the advice and opinion that it is now necessary to continue the recovery process.
Such a decision is not easy to make, but I promise that I will be there and support the team as much as I can.
Our land – Latvia! 🇱🇻💪 “
A few days ago, German reporter Rupert Fabig raised similar worries about Porzingis’ participation in the World Cup. Yet, the Latvian Association vehemently dismissed the claims.
Despite the National Team’s response, the journalist has now reiterated that the recently joined Boston Celtics player will, in fact, be absent from the upcoming FIBA World Cup.
Kristaps #Porzingis of the Boston #Celtics is indeed missing the #FIBAWC due to injury as I’ve reported last week. https://t.co/QwKZlGATkU
— Rupert Fabig (@rupertfabig) August 15, 2023
In the absence of the prominent center, Davis Bertans is set to make his first appearance in a friendly game against Finland on Wednesday, August 16th.
Despite overcoming a calf injury during the initial training camp, the forward confirmed his readiness for the competition in an interview with Sportacentrs.
While Porzingis’ absence will be felt on the Latvian national team, they are determined to compete and aim to advance from group C, which also includes Canada, Lebanon, and France.