NBA All-Star to fulfill mandatory military service in Finland during offseason: ‘We take pride in it’

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Utah Jazz All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen has offseason plans. 

The 2023 All-Star selection will fulfill his mandatory service in the Finnish military after the season, according to a report by ESPN.

Lauri Markkanen, #23 of the Utah Jazz, looks on during the first half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Vivint Arena on March 22, 2023, in Salt Lake City, Utah.  (Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)

"It's mandatory, we have to do it, but at the same time we take pride in it, too," Markkanen told ESPN. "I think it sets an example to serve. And I'm confident I can do it in a way that it's not going to affect my preparation for next season, either."

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In Finland, military service is mandatory for all males by the age of 30.

Markkanen, 25, is scheduled to report to a base in Helsinki either on April 17th or at some point in July. 

"Of course, I'd rather be working out like I normally do [in the offseason], but I've heard they do a good job of combining the two," Markkanen said. "You're able to do your job working as an athlete and your basic training at the same time."

Lauri Markkanen, #23 of the Utah Jazz, looks on during the first half of a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Vivint Arena on April 6, 2023, in Salt Lake City, Utah.  (Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)

Markkanen postponed his service while playing college basketball at the University of Arizona and while playing for the Finnish national team. 

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"Lauri has always said he was going to do this," said his longtime agent, Michael