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.
