Utah Jazz: David Stockton set to re-join Team USA this month

Utah Jazz point guard David Stockton will re-join USA Basketball ahead of the next wave of FIBA World Cup qualifiers.

To say 2018 has been a big year for David Stockton is a massive understatement. Most recently, the globetrotting baller and son of Hall of Fame point guard John Stockton earned a spot with his “hometown squad,” the Utah Jazz. After inking two 10-day contracts with the team, he remained in Utah throughout its playoff run. But that’s not all he did.

Stockton also had the distinction of joining Team USA for the second wave of FIBA World Cup qualifiers in February. He played well in a two-game run against Cuba and Puerto Rico, averaging 8.5 points and 3.5 assists per contest.

Now, he has a chance to lock down a spot on the national team for Wave 3.

Per an announcement from USA Basketball, Stockton will be one of 14 players heading to Houston, Texas for the World Cup Qualifying Team Training Camp tipping off on June 20. There, he’ll vie for one of 12 roster spots for games against Mexico (June 28) and Cuba (July 1).

Joining the point guard will be Salt Lake City Stars sharpshooter Taylor Braun.

Braun was signed by the Jazz last October in what was largely a move to acquire his G-League rights. He went on to play in 45 games for Salt Lake, averaging 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds per contest while shooting 39 percent from 3-point range.

At the conclusion of the Stars’ season, he joined VL Pesaro of Italy’s Lega Basket Serie A.

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Stockton, meanwhile, saw the court in three regular season contests for the Jazz, averaging 3.3 points per game. He also appeared in two playoff games.

His status with Utah’s summer league squad is unknown. It may just hinge on whether or not he makes Team USA’s final roster; the Jazz begin their summer slate just one day after the Americans wrap up this wave of qualifiers in Havana.

In any case, the international experience could be valuable in his continued development. It’s also a matter of pride for all those involved.

Here’s what USA Basketball coach Jeff Van Gundy said to that effect —

"“We’re very fortunate to have back a good number of players who have played in previous World Cup Qualifying games. That shows the experience of representing USA Basketball and their country was meaningful to them, and obviously it was beneficial to their careers.”"

USA Basketball is currently 4-0 in qualification.

The 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup, emanating from China, will run next fall from August 31 to September 15.