TRISTAN Thompson showed no sign of fatigue after an energy-sapping NBA campaign, suiting up and delivering for Canada in the Fiba Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Manila.
The Cavaliers forward drew the loudest cheers from the crowd at MOA Arena as Canada downed Turkey to get a step ahead in the battle for a spot in the Rio de Janeiro Olympics.
Coming off a seven-game NBA Finals, Thompson is back on the court this time for Canada, scoring 10 points and six assists in the opener.
Thompson declined to be interviewed by mediamen following the game but Canada coach Jay Triano credited the Cavs forward for heeding the call for international duty despite the limited time.
“Tristan has a huge passion for his country and he loves the game of basketball,” said Triano.
“It’s always in his mind all the time. Even though he won the championship, he still loves to play for Canada.
[See Canada off to fine start in Fiba OQT but Cory Joseph says they need to work on rebounding]
“He plays with a lot of pride and passion. It’s a big sacrifice but obviously, we are very happy that he is here. That’s the kind of person that he is,” said Triano.
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