Charlotte Hornets star Nic Batum will play for the French national basketball team in the 2016 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Manila, Philippines.
Though it was still unclear until the last few days whether Batum is participating in the tournament or not, the wing man tweeted on early Monday morning that he is headed to Manila to join the Les Bleus. In addition, the official FIBA Manila OQT page confirmed the report.
La #MissionRio commence maintenant !#Dallas #Tokyo #Manille pic.twitter.com/MmZTOE5gOX
— Nicolas Batum (@nicolas88batum) July 3, 2016
Batum recently agreed to a five-year, 120-million dollar deal with the Hornets. The eight-year NBA veteran, averaged 14.9 PPG, 6.1 RPG, and 5.8 APG last season.
France had brought Edwin Jackson to Manila just in case Batum fails to suit up, but since Batum has confirmed his participation, Jackson is expected to slide to a reserve role.
