Kristaps Porzingis wanted to remain with Latvia despite injury

Kristaps Porzingis isn’t participating in the 2023 FIBA World Cup due to a plantar fasciitis injury. Still, the Boston Celtics big man who was recently acquired in a three-team trade with the Washington Wizards and Memphis Grizzlies has remained with the Latvian national team.

During a recent interview with Eurohoops, Porzingis revealed that he wanted to remain with his teammates to show support and pass on advice and wisdom from his time in the NBA. The All-Star big man also noted how he’s trying to ensure he keeps spirits high within his team’s camp, thus showing some true leadership qualities.

“I don’t (help),” Porzingis said “I’m around the team. I try to give some tips from the guys that I know that play in the NBA. Of course try keep the spirits high for the games. To have good energy. … I just wanted to be with the team. I have a long season ahead of me, in Boston most likely. I want to spend more time with my teammates, my family back home.”

Porzingis, 28, will be entering his first season with the Celtics in the coming months. By remaining with the Latvian national team, the former New York Knicks standout will likely be working on his rehab and recovery with the team’s doctors while also following instructions from Boston’s medical staff.

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Celtics fans will hope Porzingis can make a speedy recovery so he can be present during training camp and acclimate himself to his new teammates and the system they will be running in the coming year. Boston acquired Porzingis in the hope that he could raise their championship ceiling.

As such, the leadership qualities Porzingis is displaying with Latvia will be an encouraging sign ahead of the new season.