Nikola Jokic Returns to Serbian National Team for World Cup Qualifiers

The Serbian national basketball team’s head coach, Dusko Vujosevic, has announced that Denver Nuggets superstar Nikola Jokic will join the team for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. This news marks a significant boost for the Serbian squad as they prepare for crucial matches this summer.

Jokic's Participation and Impact

According to reports from Mozzart Sport, Jokic will be available for both the July and August qualifying windows. His participation is particularly crucial after leading the Nuggets to an NBA championship in the 2022/23 season. Jokic's return to the national team after missing EuroBasket 2022 will be a significant addition to the Serbian roster.

"Nikola’s return is a morale booster for the team and will surely impact the team’s performance in the qualifiers," Vujosevic said in a recent press conference.

Bogdan Bogdanovic's Availability

While Jokic’s return is a positive development, the Serbian team faces the challenge of Bogdan Bogdanovic’s uncertain availability. Bogdanovic, another key player, is likely to miss part of the summer training camp and some of the matches due to unresolved issues with his club and minor health concerns.

“The situation with Bogdan is different. He has some unresolved issues with his club and some health issues that need to be addressed. It is certain that he will miss the July window but will be with the team for the August matches,” Vujosevic explained.

The Serbian national team will commence its preparation for the World Cup in early July. They are placed in Group B alongside teams from South Sudan, China, and Puerto Rico. The group stage matches will be played in Manila, Philippines.

Follow us for more updates on the Serbian national team's journey towards the World Cup.

Images: Imago