MILWAUKEE (NBA/FIBA Basketball World Cup) - Argentina sharpshooter Carlos Delfino is likely to miss the entire 2013-14 NBA campaign with the Milwaukee Bucks because his foot hasn't healed properly following surgery.

The veteran was in fine fettle in May, helping the Houston Rockets push the Oklahoma City Thunder to six games in their Western Conference play-off showdown.

But he fractured a bone in his foot while dunking over Kevin Durant.

Since having an operation and signing a contract with his former club, Milwaukee, Delfino has worn a walking boot and was hoping to be back on the court with the Bucks.

The foot has not healed as he had anticipated.

On his website, carlosdelfino.com, the 31-year-old said: "It is still there, and I'm going to have to undergo surgery again in order to resolve the situation.

"I am frustrated because I did all the homework but my body did not respond as I expected. But I am optimistic.

"Now I have to be calm and open regarding the chosen professional that can help me recovery from my injury.

"This (previous operation) was done worse than I expected but I am sure I will return to the basketball courts."

The story that updates Delfino's status on his website says he must first identify the surgeon, and then a recovery time of four to six months will be required.

Argentina were able to accomplish their aim of qualifying for the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Spain, despite the absence of Delfino, Andres Nocioni, Manu Ginobili and Pablo Prigioni at this year's FIBA Americas Championship in Caracas, Venezuela.

The team coached by Julio Lamas and led by veteran Luis Scola achieved a top-four finish to reach the World Cup, and the won the bronze medal.

FIBA