Will Ricky Rubio play in the 2023 FIBA World Cup now that he wants to focus on his mental health?
This past season was critical for the Cavs’ star after the one before was ended by a serious injury. Now, he’s decided to take a step away from the game.
Despite the fact that his national team will be without one of its biggest stars, the reality is that the Spanish point guard has taken a step toward something that can’t be criticized or questioned and that’s always good to see.
Ricky Rubio to focus on his mental health
It goes without saying that there will be a number of basketball fans who aren’t pleased with Ricky Rubio’s decision. We are after all just a few weeks away from the start of the 2023 FIBA World Cup, and with his announcement, the 32-year-old has ended any hope that he will be available to help Spain’s men’s basketball team try to clinch what would be their third title. As for what Rubio said, simply put the Cleveland Cavaliers guard indicated that he is taking a step back from basketball. Indeed, Rubio stated that he will be focusing on his mental health for the foreseeable future. This is of course a major blow to Spain’s FIBA World Cup aspirations as defending champions.
Via a statement that he released through the Spanish Basketball Federation, Rubio thanked everyone for their support and asked for privacy. “I have decided to stop my professional activity to take care of my mental health,” Rubio said. “I want to thank all the support I have received from the FEB to understand my decision. Today #LaFamilia makes more sense than ever. Thank you. I would ask that my privacy be respected so that I can face these moments and be able to give more information when the time is right.”
Ricky Rubio’s path to this point
You may recall that just this season gone, Rubio returned from an ACL tear and managed to play 33 games for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Yet, it was plain to see that the former No. 5 overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft was not at his best as he averaged 5.2 points, 3.5 assists, and 1.8 rebounds per game. At present, there is no timeline for a return where Rubio’s future is concerned, which means all the franchise and fans can do is wish him well and hope that he can find a way back to his best both on and off the court. In his career so far, Rubio has registered 7,570 points, 5,160 assists, and 2,830 rebounds in 698 career NBA games.