By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
An unusual offseason coming up for Utah Jazz star Lauri Markkanen.
The Finnisher revealed his intentions to join the army in Finland. “It’s mandatory, we have to do it, but at the same time we take pride in it, too,” he told ESPN, “I think it sets an example to serve. And I’m confident I can do it in a way that it’s not going to affect my preparation for next season, either.”
Markkanen, 25, has already postponed serving his country at the military level three times. This time around, the path is expected to lead him from the army to Finland starting the training camp for the 2023 FIBA World Cup set to be played in Asia from 25 August to 10 September. After representing his country, he will focus on the 2023-24 NBA Regular Season.
“Of course, I’d rather be working out like I normally do, but I’ve heard they do a good job of combining the two,” pointed out the former Arizona standout regarding the altered offseason schedule, “You’re able to do your job working as an athlete and your basic training at the same time.”
Following four seasons with the Chicago Bulls and one with the Cleveland Cavaliers, he was traded to the Jazz last September, shortly before tipoff in the 2022 EuroBasket. Averaging 25.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.6 blocks per contest, Markkanen displayed his best NBA campaign to date combining resurgence with his first All-Star Game nod.
Photo Credit: FIBA.BASKETBALL