There might not be a more complicated situation as a basketball fan than watching players from your favorite team participate in international basketball games.
On one hand, I feel guilty for not wanting players as fun and talented as Lauri Markkanen to represent their country. There’s literally nothing wrong with wanting to represent your country on the court, especially in Markkanen’s case, as he’s only the third player ever from Finland to play in the NBA.
It’s just so hard to stop myself from thinking about the worst case scenario, which we all saw happen to Paul George four years ago. (borderline NSFW)
It’s only a couple of games in a FIBA qualifier, it’s not like he’s out playing in an Olympic type tournament every offseason. Not to mention guys like Manu Ginobli and Pau Gasol have played overseas regularly in their offseasons, and they remain productive NBA players today despite being a combined 77 years old. Nothing about what Markkanen is doing should make me upset and nervous.
Regardless of logic, I am both of those things. I am nervous that one of these days he’s going to hurt himself playing for Finland, and that will make me upset as a Bulls fan that cares deeply about him being healthy for the NBA season.
So, props to Lauri Markkanen for ignoring dopes like myself and representing his home country by doing something he loves. Just please remain in one piece!
