By John Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Steven Adams’ potential debut with New Zealand won’t happen during the 2019 FIBA World Cup. However, the 25-year-old center of the Oklahoma City Thunder will evaluate the opportunity to play in the 2020 Olympic Games. Basketball New Zealand informed on Adams’ decision via thread on Twitter relaying a statement received from the players’ agent at Wasserman Media Group.
“Steven’s support of the Tall Blacks and his interest in playing for the program at some point down the line is unwavering. While he won’t be participating this year with the National Team, his plan is to evaluate the opportunity to play in the 2020 Olympics following the upcoming NBA season” Adams’ representative communicated.
Despite missing the massive boost Adams’ would have provided, New Zealand still hopes for an Olympics berth. The Tall Blacks will need to finish higher than Australia at China or be among the four top teams of the Olympic Qualifying Tournaments set to take place on June of 2020 to make the cut for the Olympic Games.
At China, New Zealand will go against Brazil on September 1st, Montenegro on September 3rd and Greece on September 5th. If it secures one of two top spots of Group F it will be included in Group K alongside two of USA, Turkey, Czech Republic and Japan, otherwise will be held to classification matches.