Why Jonathan Kuminga may not represent his nation due to contract delays
According to ESPN's Shams Charania and Anthony Slater, the 22-year-old forward reportedly declined a two-year deal offered by the franchise. The offer would have paid $45 million over two years but included a team option that would have given them an out for the second season. If he were to accept, Kuminga would become a tradable player on January 15.
The report added that Kuminga's representation wants something closer to a three year deal worth approximately $82 million and they are open to sign-and-trade opportunities, with the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns and Chicago Bulls as potential options.
Kuminga could also accept a one-year qualifying offer worth $7.9 million and then become a free agent again next season. He has until October 1 to make that decision. As he weighs his options, though, he is also reportedly facing another conundrum.
According to Marc Stein, due to these stalls, Kuminga is "not expected" to play for his national team due the upcoming FIBA AfroBasket tournament in Angola.
Kuminga was featured on the preliminary roster to represent the Democratic Republic of Congo. He was expected to play with other pros including Emmanuel Mudiay and Oscar Tshiebwe. His brother, Joel Ntambwe, was also on the preliminary roster.
Kuminga played for the Democratic Republic of Congo at the African World Cup Qualifier in 2023.
This is something very important to him, as he explained in 2022 (via fiba.basketball):
"Having somebody who played in the NBA and comes back to play for their country, it means a lot to me. Being born in Congo and then making it to the NBA, it's a pleasure for me to come here and play for my national team ... Me gaining this chance to play now, it's a blessing. It's like a dream come through; Being surrounded by this group of players, I am just trying to learn from everybody and help the team to win ... My commitment for my national team will be forever. I would love to play for my country every single year. As long as I am free in the offseason I would love to come and play for my national team."
Kuminga said he was initially encouraged to play in FIBA competition by Serge Ibaka as well as Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Andre Iguodala.
It is tough to read that he wants to play for his national team forever but now likely won't have a chance to do that.
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