Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 27) — One player from Team USA sent the crowd at the Mall of Asia Arena into a frenzy every time he did something on the court: Austin Reaves.
The 25-year-old guard, who plays for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA, was the clear star of the show among local spectators who witnessed Team USA’s 99-72 win over New Zealand on Saturday.
The Philippines has a major Lakers fan base since there are many Filipinos living in Los Angeles, California.
Reaves said he expected the warm reception from Filipinos as he was already given a heads up by a Lakers assistant coach who visited the country last June.
“I kinda saw it coming. I was talking to Phil Handy and he was telling me they love the Lakers out here. It’s special for me. I’m from a super small town. Not a lot expected me to be here representing our country so for them to accept me means a lot to me,” the 6-foot-5 cager said in a post-game press conference.
Reaves finished with 12 points, six assists, and two rebounds for Team USA.
The Americans will gun for their second victory against Greece on Aug. 28 at the same venue.
