TEAM USA managing director and seven-time NBA All-Star Grant Hill reminisced his experience in the Philippines as the Americans prepare for the 2023 Fiba Basketball World Cup in Manila next month.
Placed in Group C, Team USA has been handpicked to play at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City by the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas — one of Fiba’s concessions to the country for taking on the hosting duties with Indonesia and Japan.
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A personal witness to how Filipinos love basketball, Hill expressed his excitement for the players once they get into Manila.
“I had the good fortune back in my former life in the mid to late 90s to visit Manila and the Philippines multiple times, and I was in awe of the passion and the love of the game that’s there… Unless, you know, there’s players on our team who’ve been there separate from us, but I don’t know if the players are fully aware of what they’re gonna experience,” said Hill.
“Basketball is the country’s sport, it’s its passion, I think it’s fitting that they will be the hosts, particularly during the medal rounds. So I think the reception, the excitement, the anticipation, will really be you know, magnificent, and I can’t wait. I’m excited,” said Hill.
There will also be a personal connection for one of the members of Team USA, as Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra will be one of Steve Kerr’s deputies in the international tournament.
“I know on our coaching staff, [Erik] Spoelstra, certainly has roots in the Philippines so he’s well aware of that,” said Hill.
“But I really don’t know if our guys fully understand the excitement that’ll be on display — not just at the arena watching us play, but you know, at the hotel, venturing throughout Manila if and when we have time — all of that will be off the charts as the young players say.”
Team USA attempt to retake the crown in the Basketball World Cup. The campaign begins with the group stage against New Zealand, Greece, and Jordan.
Still, the added effect of the atmosphere, Hill predicts, will be something to look forward to for the players.
“I can’t wait for that experience and I think it’s great to be in an environment that truly lives and breathes and consumes anything and everything basketball. So it’ll be fun.”
Before going to Manila, Team USA will be holding training camp in Las Vegas then are set to play exhibition games in Spain and Abu Dhabi.
Earlier this week, the final roster for Team USA was released, namely Paolo Banchero, Mikal Bridges, Jalen Brunson, Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton, Josh Hart, Brandon Ingram, Jaren Jackson Jr., Cam Johnson, Walker Kessler, Bobby Portis, and Austin Reeves.
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