The injury bug is impacting Slovenia during its preparation for the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
During a pre-tournament friendly exhibition with Greece, Luka Doncic was forced to exit in the first half after suffering an apparent injury to his right knee. After hobbling off the floor, Doncic did not return to the game.
What does this mean for Doncic and his national team ahead of the World Cup, which begins on Aug. 25? Here is what we know about his injury.
MORE: Who should start for Team USA at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup?
What is Luka Doncic's injury?
Late in the first half of Slovenia's friendly exhibition against Greece, Doncic appeared to bump knees with a member of the Greek national team while attempting to navigate a screen.
It was initially unclear whether Doncic tweaked something or if there was contact, but the Mavericks superstar came up hobbling during the play. Here is the play in which Doncic appeared to have gotten hurt:
Seems like Luka may have tweaked something towards the end of the half. pic.twitter.com/BqdBNnWyWd
— The Mavs Blog (@TheMavsBlog) August 4, 2023
According to ESPN's Tim MacMahon, there are "no concerns" around Doncic after he banged his knees with an opponent during the game. NBA insider Marc Stein reported that Doncic did not sustain an injury and his absence in the second half was scheduled beforehand.
The Sporting News will continue to provide updates on the developing story around Doncic's status.
Will Luka Doncic play in the FIBA Basketball World Cup?
Doncic has expressed excitement to represent his country at the World Cup, indicating that he plans to play. With Doncic apparently avoiding injury, he is likely to play in the World Cup, barring any setbacks.
Slovenia group, schedule at 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup
The Slovenian national team will participate in Group F and play each game of the Group Phase at Okinawa Arena in Okinawa, Japan. Group F consists of Slovenia, Cape Verde, Venezuela and Georgia.
| Date | Opponent | Time (ET) |
| Saturday, Aug. 26 | Venezuela | 7:30 a.m. |
| Monday, Aug. 28 | Georgia | 7:30 a.m. |
| Wednesday, Aug. 30 | Cape Verde | 7:30 a.m. |
The top two finishers from Group F will advance to the Second Round. They will be joined by the top two finishers from Group E (Germany, Finland, Australia, and Japan).
