Steven Adams will not play for New Zealand at this summer's FIBA Basketball World Cup, although he did keep the door open to play should the team qualify for the 2020 Olympics.
“Steven’s support of the Tall Blacks and his interest in playing for the program at some point down the line is unwavering. While he won’t be participating this year with the National Team, his plan is to evaluate the opportunity to play in the 2020 Olympics following the upcoming NBA season," said Adams in a statement.
New Zealand are in Group F alongside Brazil, Greece, and Montenegro.