Having Once Played for Michael Jordan?s Team, Who Is Luka Doncic?s 7?0 ?Second in Command? Mike Tobey?

With the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup raising the temperature, the world of basketball is unearthing several talents. One such name in the tournament has been Luka Doncic?s teammate Mike Tobey. Interestingly, the 7?0 star once played for a team associated with Michael Jordan.

The 28-year-old has been one of the most influential on-court figures in the former parts of the competition. No wonder his squad looks up to him as the second in command to Luka.

How is Mike Tobey related to Michael Jordan?

The center has represented several big teams in European basketball, notably for FC Barcelona and Valencia. Surprisingly, the Slovenian international was born in the USA. He even won a gold medal in the FIBA World U19 Cup playing for Team USA in 2013. But as luck would have it, entering the 2016 NBA draft, he went undrafted.

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After a rough start to his professional career, he signed for MJ-owned Charlotte Hornets. His misery continued as he got tossed around and had to wait long for his opportunity. Following a few 10-day contracts, he finally made his NBA debut in 2017 to play a mere two games all season.

Because of the lack of chances, he decided to step outside of the USA and try his luck in Europe. The gamble turned successful as he won the FIBA Intercontinental Cup in 2017 and became the competition?s MVP. What followed was a series of memorable achievements and he never had to look back since then.

Rise as a Slovenian icon

Since securing his Slovenian passport, he became an integral part of the national team setup. The former Hornet snatched the spotlight in the 2020 FIBA Men?s Olympics. He played a key role in his nation?s run to the semi-finals of the tournament.

In the opener of this World Cup, he has carried forward his form. Against Venezuela in the first group-stage game, he scored 21 points and secured 2 assists alongside 5 rebounds. The basketball prowess of the international star was on full display in that match.

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Mike is a brilliant example for modern-day basketball fans for his attitude towards the game. Despite the challenges, he never stopped perfecting his craft, which handed him success when he was ready for it.