* article by Karl Tan & Monch Palu-ay
After a disappointing 7th place in the 2019 FIBA World Cup, Team USA is ready to win back the James Naismith Trophy. Their training camp started in Las Vegas early August, then they travelled to Malaga, Spain and Abu Dhabi to play exhibition games before arriving in Manila on August 22, 2023. The team continued its preparation, conducting practices as soon as they arrived in the Philippines.
In their media availability before practice, key members of the NBA talent-laden team believes playing their roles well and good team play are keys to winning the championship.
Anthony Edwards, the Minnesota Timberwolves rising star says his body is still adjusting due to jet lag and still believes that he will be ready for their first game against the Tall Blacks of New Zealand.
Tyrese Haliburton, an NBA all-star and a starter for most of his NBA career, has adjusted to his role coming off the bench for the team. The Indiana Pacers Guard shares that coming off the bench allows him to see what the team needs and provides them when he gets in.
Local fan-favorite from the Lakers, Austin Reaves who still hopes to go around and tour Manila, says his body has adjusted well despite the traveling and he says that he loves the weather here in the Philippines.
Mikal Bridges and Bobby Portis, two of the most experienced players on the team having played against each other in the 2021 NBA Finals, have brought leadership to this young team. They believe that playing hard at all times and being mentally tough are important.
A natural small forward with the New Orleans Pelicans, Brandon Ingram has played more of a big forward with Team USA. He’s been guarding stronger players but has welcomed the responsibility as he’s helped the team with his rebounding. His quickness and ballhanding as a big forward also gives Team USA a big advantage.
Known for his scoring prowess with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Anthony Edwards is in line with his teamates. He is just focused on one thing.
“Just win the game. Anything to win the game.”
Team USA will play its first game on Saturday, Aug 26, against New Zealand at the MOA Arena.
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