Domantas Sabonis unlikely to play in FIBA Basketball World Cup / News - Basketnews.com

Lithuania national team head coach Kazys Maksvytis says the chances of Domantas Sabonis playing in the FIBA Basketball World Cup are less than 50 percent.

Credit: BNS/Erikas Ovčarenko Credit BNS/Erikas Ovčarenko

The Sacramento Kings star Domantas Sabonis seems unlikely to play in the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup after the Lithuania national team head coach Kazys Maksvytis provided an update.

Domantas Sabonis

Team:Sacramento KingsPosition:PF, CAge:27Height:211 cmWeight:109 kgBirth place:Portland, United States of AmericaProfileNewsStatistics

"We all hope that Domantas will play," Maksvytis said in the Zalgiris on Air podcast. "However, we all know the valid reasons [that could prevent him from playing]. If I had to say on his chances today, I'd say those chances are less than 50 percent."

"Nevertheless, as long as there's hope, we will continue believing that he will be able to join us," Maksvytis added.

It's still unknown whether Sabonis will need surgery on his right thumb. Sabonis was diagnosed with an avulsion fracture of the ulnar collateral ligament of the right thumb in December. However, he ended the season playing through it.

Sabonis could also sign a contract extension with the Kings, which is another reason why the 27-year-old might miss the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup.

During the 2022-23 season, Sabonis averaged 19.1 points, 12.3 rebounds, and 7.3 assists per game over 79 appearances. He was also included in All-NBA 3rd Team.

FIBA Basketball World Cup will take place in the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia from August 25th to September 10th and will be hosted by the three nations for the first time.

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