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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Robert Marvi

Rui Hachimura will not play for Japan in FIBA World Cup

After the Los Angeles Lakers acquired him in late January, Rui Hachimura became one of the reasons they turned the season around after the All-Star break.

He gave them much needed viable depth at both forward spots, and he particularly gave them a shot in the arm during their unexpected postseason run to the Western Conference finals.

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Hachimura is a native of Japan, and with the FIBA World Cup coming up later this summer, some expected him to suit up for his home country. However, he will not do so. He is apparently prioritizing his NBA career instead (h/t ClutchPoints).

Hachimura will be a restricted free agent this summer, and the Lakers have reportedly made re-signing him a high priority.

Ultimately, not playing in the FIBA World Cup should make him fresher for the upcoming season and result in less physical wear and tear.

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