Josh Giddey lists benefits of 2023 FIBA World Cup experience

Josh Giddey believes playing international basketball over the offseason can help players gain a rhythm heading into the NBA season.

Despite it being usually the slowest time of the year, the Oklahoma City Thunder had a pretty busy August.

In the 2023 FIBA World Cup, five Thunder players suited up for their home countries and participate in the 32-team international tournament. This summer also marked the first time Josh Giddey donned the Australian uniform.

The 20-year-old’s youthfulness did not deter Australia from naming him the face of the program for the foreseeable future. In his first stint with the Boomers, Giddey averaged 19.4 points, five rebounds and six assists in five group games.

Even though Australia didn’t advance past the group stage, Giddey said it was a valuable experience that helped him get warmed up for the regular season. It also helped him experiment a bit more as a lead scorer.

When asked about his FIBA run, Giddey spoke highly of it following Thursday’s training camp.

“This was the first offseason I’ve had playing FIBA with my country,” Giddey said. “I think it’s good that you’re not taking that long of a break playing organized basketball. Next year it’s going to be the Olympics and then we’re going to come right back into the season.”

“I love playing basketball all year round. It’s a dream situation for what I want to do,” Giddey continued. “I think it does help with the continuity and flow of things – you’re able to keep playing against elite, world-class competition and when you come back into this building, you continue that flow on.”

As Giddey mentioned, he’ll have that chance to start a rhythm heading into next year’s training camp when Australia gets a chance to play in the 2024 Olympics in Paris, France.

“Any chance we he to play the game, we’re going to take it,” Giddey continued. “FIBA ball is a great way for us to — not work on our games — but continue the flow of gameplay and keeping that feeling going heading into the season.”

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