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.
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).
Rui Hachimura decided not to play for Japan National Team this summer at FIBA World Cup, JBA has just announced. In a press release, Hachimura says it was a tough decision, but he wants to focus on preparation for the upcoming season and NBA career. https://t.co/Oqc1Cam1Pu
— Yoko Miyaji (@YokoMiyajiE) June 27, 2023
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.
