LJUBLJANA (FIBA Basketball World Cup) - The memory of Goran Dragic driving Slovenia forward at EuroBasket 2013 burns bright.

The 28-year-old led the national side to a fifth-place finish and qualification for the FIBA Basketball World Cup and was named to the All-Tournament Team.

Get ready to see more of the lightning quick point guard in a Slovenia shirt because Dragic has confirmed he will be with his national team at the World Cup in Spain.

There were some concerns about his presence because of the ankle injuries he endured during the 2013-14 NBA season with the Phoenix Suns, including down the stretch when he had to miss an important game against the San Antonio Spurs.

But Dragic has announced he will be with the side when it plays in Gran Canaria against Australia, Lithuania, Mexico, Angola and Korea in Group D.

"This year's NBA season in Phoenix was both physically and mentally very tough, while I was plagued by problems with a damaged ankle," he said in a statement issued by the Slovenian Basketball Federation.

"At first, I really wanted to take the time just for rehabilitation and family, but only after a break of one month, I gained power, and it's easier now to take a final decision.

"Also, all the check-ups (medical) that I have had recently showed that I will be in perfect physical shape just in time for the World Championship.

"It is a great honor for me to represent Slovenia in Spain and unite the fans for a common success of the Slovenian team."

Dragic will be among the star attractions at the World Cup.

At the EuroBasket, he averaged 15.8 points, 4.5 assists and 0.9 steals - all team highs.

With the Suns this season, Dragic averaged team highs in scoring (20.3ppg), assists (5.9apg) and steals (1.37spg).

Matej Avanzo, Slovenia's national team general manager, said: "We took a break of a few days before issuing the press release as Goran wanted to first inform his employers, the Phoenix Suns, and his agent about the decision, but at the same time to also, just in case, undergo further medical examinations on his ankles, which caused so many problems during the last NBA season.

"With everything finally resolved, it's clear that he will play in his third World Championship."

Dragic played at the 2006 and 2010 editions of FIBA's flagship competition.

Slovenia coach Jure Zdovc is ecstatic that Dragic will play.

"The fact that any player has both the desire and motivation to play 100 percent for the country is the most important thing," he said. "All of use are very pleased…

"Our aims are still high and with Goran Dragic, they will certainly be easier to reach."

FIBA