Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 25) — Team USA is on a mission to reclaim its throne in the FIBA World Cup.
Following a disappointing seventh place finish in the last edition of the prestigious tournament, the Americans are committed to get back the trophy in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
USA Basketball Men’s National Team Managing Director Grant Hill mentioned some of the nations that are, in his opinion, the strong title contenders, including reigning champion and top-ranked country Spain.
“Germany, Spain, Canada, France, Serbia. There’s a lot of teams that are capable,” he told CNN Philippines’ Sports Desk in an exclusive interview with Andrei Felix.
Hill, a former Team USA member, explained how the game is very different in FIBA compared with how it is played in the NBA where all of its current players are from.
“Unlike in the NBA where you have a seven-game series in the playoffs, you can afford to have an off game, or off half over seven games. Ultimately the better team’s gonna win. But here, you have to be attentive, focused, play hard and together for 40 minutes, and if you don’t then you’re gonna go home. We are aware and respectful of all these teams,” the 50-year-old executive said.
Hill also said that every win in the FIBA World Cup will be earned and not easily given to them.
“I think the guys understand what’s at stake. There’s a real sort of pride in being part of USA basketball, and going out trying to win and take back what we feel is ours,” he said.
“We know it’s not going to be given to us. We know we have to go out and fight for it and work hard for it. The main thing is to try reduce the pressure,” he added.
Team USA will open its redemption tour against New Zealand on Aug. 26 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Catch the full interview on Sports Desk tonight at 8:30 p.m.
