Mikal Bridges says he'll 'never say no' to Team USA

Mikal Bridges admitted that Team USA's loss to Canada in the bronze medal game of the 2023 FIBA World Cup stung, especially as it caused them to miss out on the podium for a second straight edition of the competition.

Bridges, one of the NBA's top rising stars who plays for the Brooklyn Nets, did everything he could in that game, including hitting a pivotal corner three-pointer to force an overtime against the Canadians.

However, they ran out of steam in the extra period to head back home without a medal.

"Just defense, I think we didn't get enough stops. I could take that with me after this but it hurts," Bridges said in the wake of their 127-118 loss to Canada.

"I just think my biggest takeaway is the relationships I built there with the coaches and my teammates and our staff."

After their failed World Cup redemption bid, the Americans are likely looking to bounce back in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Team USA is the reigning Olympics champion and is the winningest team in the Summer Games, having won a total of 16 gold medals, one silvers, and two bronze medals.

And the 27-year-old Bridges would be willing to be a part of that mission, signifying his commitment if ever Team USA once again called him up to suit up in Paris.

"I think I'll never say no. It's an honor every time, even though the outcome isn't what we wanted but I wouldn't trade these six weeks away."

—JMB, GMA Integrated News