Team USA head coach Steve Kerr. –JONAS TERRADO/Inquirer Sports
Team USA coach Steve Kerr, renowned for his championship victories as a player alongside Michael Jordan and Tim Duncan, as well as his role in coaching Stephen Curry, is well-known among Filipino basketball fans.
Having witnessed the passion Filipinos have for basketball, Kerr and the rest of the American team are eager to bring back the Fiba World Cup title and embrace the enthusiastic atmosphere surrounding the tournament.
“It’s exciting to be here,” expressed Kerr, the mentor for the Golden State Warriors, during a press conference after the team’s first practice at Mall of Asia Arena on Wednesday.
Kerr acknowledged the popularity of basketball in the Philippines, mentioning USA assistant coach and former Northern Consolidated player Chip Engelland. He expressed his delight at finally being able to experience it firsthand.
Although Team USA may not have the expected superstar players, their roster includes names familiar to local basketball fans. The coaching staff also features well-known figures, such as Filipino-American Erik Spoelstra, who is serving as an assistant coach. Tyrone Lue is currently leading the Los Angeles Clippers, but he previously played alongside Kobe Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, and Michael Jordan.
Lue notably coached the Cleveland Cavaliers, led by LeBron James, to a come-from-behind victory in the 2016 NBA Finals against Kerr’s Warriors, despite being down 3-1 in the series.
The practice session served as an opportunity for Team USA to familiarize themselves with the venue. They will commence their campaign against New Zealand on Saturday.
“It was very helpful,” noted Kerr. “The guys enjoyed getting a feel for the arena and the hoops, seeing the backdrop. It’s great to be here.”
During the conclusion of the practice, some players took the opportunity to work on their shooting skills. Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks practiced free throws, while Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves successfully made a halfcourt shot.
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Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
