Cory Joesph has reportedly removed himself from Team Canada ahead of the FIBA World Cup. According to Michael Grange of Sportsnet, Joseph aggravated a back issue during training camp and made the decision so he can be ready for the upcoming season with the Golden State Warriors.
The World Cup will begin on August 25 and run until September 10. Golden State will now only have one member of their roster participating in the tournament, with two-way guard Lester Quinones set to represent the Dominican Republic.
Joseph was acquired by the Warriors earlier this summer, as Mike Dunleavy and Joe Lacob looked to ensure the franchise had enough depth at the guard position after multiple seasons of struggle whenever Steph Curry went to the bench.
Joseph had a back issue flair up in camp, decision was mutual as he gets ready to join Golden State. Robertson has a new EuroLeague deal and being advised to be in camp on time. WC over laps by 10 days. https://t.co/KFdxMFAN42
— Michael Grange (@michaelgrange) August 6, 2023
After spending the last two and a half seasons with the Detroit Pistons and not making the playoffs since 2019, Joseph can be expected to take his conditioning incredibly seriously ahead of the new season. Furthermore, having won a championship with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014, Joseph may believe the upcoming season is his best chance of tasting that success for a second time.
As such, it makes sense that the veteran guard would remove himself from Team Canada’s roster if he believes that his participation in the World Cup could hinder his ability to be an impactful member of Golden State’s rotation.
