Nebojsa Joksimovic has decided to pull out of Slovenia’s preliminary squad for this year’s Eurobasket.
The 29-year-old was originally in coach Bozidar Maljkovic’s first list, but pulled out voluntarily, wanting the younger players to get their chance instead. Joksimovic last appeared for Slovenia at the 2008 Olympic Qualifying tournament.
“I am both delighted and honoured that my coach Bozidar Maljkovic invited me to be a member of the preparation team and I am happy that I could be with the team in its first week of training,” Joksimovic acknowledged.
Slovenia have completed their first week of training camp with Jaka Lakovic, Miha Zupan and Goran Dragic amongst the players involved. Erazem Lorbek and Bostjan Nachbar are expected to join the squad this week or next.
Joksimovic though was confident about his decision: “This weekend, when we had a break, I thought about things and came to a conclusion that it’s better to withdraw and leave the place in the team to younger players who should get the chance.”
Coach Maljkovic didn’t dwell or speak much about the decision, concentrating on the players he has at camp. But did wish Joksimovic all the best for the future when asked.
No major incidents were reported during week one of Slovenia’s training camp.
Slovenia are drawn in Group D with Russia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Ukraine and Georgia. All games will be played in Klaipeda.
