Dallas Mavericks reserve ball handler J.J. Barea faced an important game on Sept. 17. Barea is playing for his country and attempting to qualify them for the 2019 FIBA World Cup. Only three teams are guaranteed qualifications and Puerto Rico is currently in third place.
The other issue is the four remaining qualifiers take place during the Mavs season meaning Barea, the team’s best player, will likely not be available. Puerto Rico had five wins in seven contests heading into Monday’s game but faced a one-loss Argentina squad. A victory would almost secure qualification for Puerto Rico, but a loss would put a lot of pressure on them in the final four games.