Washington Wizards’ 2019 NBA Draft Lottery pick Rui Hachimura has been playing for Japan in the FIBA World Cup. The former Gonzaga standout will miss the final two games of the World Cup due to knee discomfort and general fatigue.
Here is a statment from JBA on Hachimura’s status:
The Wizards and Japan Basketball have been operating under a carefully created load management plan to protect Rui’s health after a long NCAA season, the NBA draft and the NBA summer league. Rui experienced knee discomfort and general fatigue during the World Cup, which we have jointly monitored with the Wizards. While everyone had hoped for Rui to finish the World Cup with Team Japan, the Wizards and Japan Basketball believe it is best for Rui to not play the final two games and have a short period of rest before he must start NBA training camp with the Wizards which begins only three weeks from now. The Wizards and Japan Basketball will continue to work together on Rui’s long term development throughout the NBA season and leading into Rui’s participation in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.”
Hachimura released the following statement:
“I love Team Japan. This was a difficult decision for the Wizards, Japan Basketball, and myself to make. I am still learning about my body and trust that the Wizards and Japan Basketball are doing everything they can to help me be the best I can be for the NBA season and the 2020 Olympics.”
The no.8 overall pick should be ready for the Wizards training camp, which begins September 29.
