In a star-studded affair, twelve talented basketball players from the United States stood on the court of T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, before a 2023 FIBA World Cup exhibition game against Puerto Rico. The team included notable players such as Austin Reaves, Walker Kessler, Jaren Jackson Jr., Josh Hart, Jalen Brunson, Anthony Edwards, Bobby Portis, Paolo Banchero, Brandon Ingram, Cam Johnson, Mikal Bridges, and Tyrese Haliburton. Photographs captured the moment when these athletes showcased their prowess and unity, painting an impressive picture of American basketball talent.
John Jenkins, one of the players selected for this prestigious opportunity, shared his excitement and gratitude. Having previously received a handwritten letter from former USA Basketball coach Gregg Popovich for his contributions to the Tokyo Olympic team, Jenkins knew the value of this experience. His efforts, like those of his teammates, were authentic and deserving of recognition.
It’s worth noting that these players weren’t merely brought in as placeholders during practice sessions. Each of them possesses the skills and potential to secure spots on NBA rosters. Langston Galloway, for instance, has played in 452 NBA games across seven different teams. Jenkins, on the other hand, has amassed 171 games with five franchises. Eric Mika even had a standout performance in his sole NBA game, demonstrating his ability to hold his ground against superstars like LeBron James and Anthony Davis. These individuals were carefully chosen from a pool of 52 players predominantly from the G League who participated in 12 qualifying games. The teams assembled during these games played a pivotal role in securing the United States’ position in the upcoming World Cup.
Behind the scenes, countless individuals contribute to the success of USA Basketball, including Sean Ford, the men’s national team director. Ford acknowledges that while he and others involved may be temporary players in the overall scheme, their contributions are meaningful, and they appreciate the support of all those who invest in the mission of USA Basketball.
Galloway’s dedication to the World Cup qualifying games speaks volumes about his character and commitment. Playing in 10 out of the 12 contests, he made a significant impact on securing the team’s spot in the tournament. His stellar performance during the game against Uruguay, where he scored 21 points, including 11 consecutive points in the fourth quarter, showcased his essential role in this journey. Galloway, who has his own shoe line called ETHICS, expressed his desire to support his teammates in their quest for gold.
Mika, specifically chosen to assist the team’s big men like Walker Kessler and Jaren Jackson Jr., contributed immensely to their development during the preparatory stages. It was deliberate that three players were added to the 12-man roster for this trip, allowing for more efficient division and organization during practices.
Jenkins and Mika have plans to return to the G League Ignite roster in the upcoming season. Both are grateful for the opportunity to represent the United States on foreign soil, wearing the prestigious USA jersey. Mika, who collected autographs from his World Cup teammates on his official team jersey, credits this experience for his improved physical condition and enhanced confidence. He believes that his time spent practicing and scrimmaging with talented coaches and players has prepared him to compete at an elite level. He remains optimistic about returning to the NBA.
As the team prepares to depart for Manila, Jenkins, Galloway, and Mika will return home to support their fellow athletes from a distance. They understand their roles and are always ready to answer the call from USA Basketball in the future. Jenkins emphasizes the importance of serving others and recognizes the significant value in contributing to the team’s success, even if their roles may differ slightly.
In conclusion, these players have proven their talent and dedication to the game of basketball. Their contributions during the qualifying games and their unwavering support for their teammates exemplify their commitment to USA Basketball. As they watch from home, they anxiously await the opportunity to contribute once again when called upon.
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