By Cesare Milanti / info@eurohoops.net
At the end of June, Paolo Banchero wrote the word end to the debate regarding his participation at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, choosing Team USA over Italy and joining Mikal Bridges, Jalen Brunson, Anthony Edwards, Tyrese Haliburton, Josh Hart, Brandon Ingram, Jaren Jackson Jr., Cameron Johnson, Walker Kessler, Bobby Portis, and Austin Reaves in Manila.
Interviewed by Associated Press’ Tim Reynolds, the 20-year-old explained his decision. “That USA team photo was hung up in the basement, and my room was in the basement. I saw that every single day. That was literally one of my biggest dreams as a kid, to play for the USA”, Paolo Banchero simply said.
“You know how you kind of go somewhere and get butterflies in your stomach because of the feelings you get? It was like that for me, no exaggeration. I was so proud that I got to do that”, he said after visiting Italy this summer. However, he won’t play alongside Gigi Datome, who announced his retirement from basketball after the most anticipated International competition of the year.
The 2023 NBA Rookie of the Year is coming off a great first season in the NBA after playing for Duke in college, averaging 20.0 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game with the Orlando Magic. At the 2023 FIBA World Cup, he will likely meet his German teammates Franz and Mo Wagner.
PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images