We are just months away from yet another NBA season, and despite all the rumours floating around regarding Donovan Mitchell, the rest of this team is preparing for the upcoming campaign and being a part of this Utah Jazz franchise. Some may be working out, others hitting up local Pro-Am games, but there are four players from this team that are choosing to play for their country in FIBA World Cup qualifying action.
Set to begin in a few days, Jordan Clarkson, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Leondro Bolmaro and new arrival Simone Fontecchio have all agreed to represent their national team, and it will allow Jazz fans to see a few of their favourite before pre-season begins in early October.
Clarkson will be representing the Philippines, Alexander-Walker will be representing Canada, Bolmaro his native Argentina and newcomer Fontecchio, who has been one of Europe’s top performers over the past few years will be representing his home of Italy. During FIBA play, it’s often hard to get a gauge on players and their abilities, because the game during these times is so different, as it’s more focused on team basketball and the fundamentals, and a few rule differences make it a much more unique game of basketball to watch.
This still gives Jazz fans a chance to see some young players who may be getting big minutes in the upcoming season if Donovan Mitchell is indeed traded, as this may be part of the core that represents the Jazz Note in 2022.
So what do you think? Will you be paying attention to the FIBA World Cup Qualifiers? Who out of these players are you most excited to see? Do you see any of them playing major parts for the Jazz in 2022? As always, let us know all your thoughts in the comments below.