Silver: International Play Changes Unlikely

Commissioner Adam Silver says he does not foresee “a major shift in the NBA’s participation in international competitions” in the wake of Paul George’s gruesome compound leg fracture suffered Friday night in Las Vegas.

Adam Silver acknowledged that Paul George’s injury will re-open debate league-wide about the merits of stars playing in international tournaments.

“Without a doubt, basketball has grown tremendously since 1992, when NBA players began playing in the Olympics,” Silver said. “Also, it’s important to note the [improvement] many of our players have made in terms of ability, leadership and passion for the game by playing for their home countries. Injuries can happen any place at any time. The experiences our players have enjoyed by participating in their national teams, however, are ones that are unique and special in almost every other way. At this point, I don’t anticipate a major shift in the NBA’s participation in international competitions.

via Marc Stein of ESPN Chicago