By Cesare Milanti / info@eurohoops.net
MANILA, Philippines – One of the brightest stars of the 2023 FIBA World Cup took the court on the tournament’s first day, leading the Dominican Republic to an 87-81 victory over the hosts, the Philippines, in front of a packed Philippine Arena.
Karl-Anthony Towns recorded a double-double of 26 points and ten rebounds before a record-breaking crowd of 38,115 fans. And that wowed even an NBA star like him.
“It’s amazing. I’ve never been here before. I had been telling everyone how eager I was to come out here. I’m super excited to be here; the fans were absolutely incredible to us. One of my best friends is heavily involved in Filipino culture. I’m incredibly proud to be Dominican, to be here with a win, and also to connect with all the fans here in the Philippines,” Towns said.
Led by the Minnesota Timberwolves star, the Dominican Republic is off to a strong start in Group A. In Round 2 of the first phase, they will face Italy in a game that could be crucial for the first-place position since Azzuri, as expected, defeated Angola on the opening day.
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Photo: fiba.basketball