Mike James held talks to represent Latvia in FIBA Basketball World Cup / News - Basketnews.com

Mike James was in discussions to represent Latvia in the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup.

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AS Monaco star Mike James was close to playing for the Latvian national team in the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup, BasketNews Senior Staff Writer Donatas Urbonas revealed during the URBONUS podcast.

"There was a high chance [of James playing for Latvia]," Urbonas said during the URBONUS podcast. "I don't remember whether it was last or this year. Latvia was thinking of getting him on board for the World Cup."

"From what I've heard, it might be possible that someone from Latvia federation or some of the veteran [players] were against it. So, they kind of [brush it off]," Urbonas added. "But for sure, there was a real case, and there were some talks between Latvia and Mike."

James finished the 2022-23 EuroLeague season, averaging 15.9 points, 3.7 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 16.4 PIR per game in 38 appearances for Monaco.

The 32-year-old James did not represent any country in international tournaments throughout his career so far.

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