Deni Avdija Defends Israel National Team Absence Decision

Following Israel's elimination from contention for the FIBA Basketball World Cup, NBA player Deni Avdija has broken his silence about the backlash he received for missing the national team's recent qualifying window. On Monday, the Portland Trail Blazers forward posted a lengthy statement on his Instagram story, explaining why he was unable to join the squad and pushing back against those questioning his dedication to Israel.

"I don't usually feel the need to explain myself, but this time it's important for me to say a few words," Avdija began. The 23-year-old noted that throughout his career, he has consistently shown up for the national team even while dealing with pain and injuries, sometimes at the expense of rest that would have better served his professional career.

"I never looked for an excuse not to come," he wrote, recalling instances when he chose to represent Israel despite physical limitations. "I came to the national team when I was in pain, I came when I wasn't at 100 percent, I came during summers when the right thing for my personal career might have been to rest."

This time, however, the situation was different due to a complex back injury he dealt with over the summer. Avdija clarified that the decision not to participate wasn't his alone, the Trail Blazers organization was unwilling to risk his health.

While acknowledging that public disappointment is understandable, Avdija drew a firm line regarding attacks on his patriotism. "I understand disappointment, I understand criticism. When you represent a country and there are expectations of you, that's part of it and I accept that," he wrote.

But he added a clear boundary: "There's one thing I'm not willing to accept, for anyone to cast doubt on my commitment to the national team and to my country."

The Israeli forward concluded his statement by expressing his eagerness to return to international competition. "There's nothing I want more than to be healthy, to get back on the court and wear Israel's jersey again," he wrote. "And until then, even when I can't be on the floor, my heart is there."