The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 global ambassador will be Argentina’s basketball legend, Luis Scola.

With 716 points, Scola is the second-highest scorer in World Cup history. His 41 games played are tied for the most in competition history, with Brazilian great Ubiratan Pereira Maciel.

“I’m truly honored to be a World Cup global ambassador and to take on this new role,” Scola said.

“I always wanted to represent Argentina, to sing the national anthem before games and to play alongside so many amazing players, and for great coaches. We always set out to win tournaments, but the most important thing was to give our best, to be good role models and to play for our country,” he added.

“Being part of our Golden Generation with so many amazing players has also been a very special experience. To play every summer was also a priority because it helped me maintain my fitness for the following season. We had amazing victories. While there were some disappointing results, we won a lot more than we lost and learned many life lessons along the way,” he added.

“Maybe the biggest was that with perseverance, togetherness and a shared vision, a team can achieve more than is expected. If all players, all teams, take that approach next year, this is going to be another unforgettable World Cup across the Philippines, Japan and Indonesia.”

Additionally, the Argentine great competed in five Olympic tournaments, winning the gold medal in Athens in 2004.

A nine-time FIBA AmeriCup podium finisher, Scola was named MVP in 2007, 2009, 2011 and 2015.