Karl-Anthony Towns sends message to Filipino people / News - Basketnews.com

Karl-Anthony Towns enjoys his time in Manila and thanks the Filipino people for their incredible hospitality and support: "To celebrate the game of basketball the way I have is truly special. It's humbling, and it makes me want to work hard as a basketball player."

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Minnesota Timberwolves star Karl-Anthony Towns is having a very successful FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 so far, personally and with a team.

Dominican Republic / Schedule

Dominican Republic Philippines87-81 Italy Dominican Republic82-87 Angola Dominican Republic67-75 Dominican Republic Puerto RicoFri12:00 Dominican Republic SerbiaSun12:00

His Dominican Republic has a perfect 3-0 record in the tournament as they prepare for the Second-Round battles against Puerto Rico and Serbia in Group I, while KAT is averaging 19.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game.

Towns said such performances were inspired by the home-like environment he felt during his stay in Manila, the Philippines.

"Thank you to everyone in the Philippines for blessing us with this opportunity to come to your homeland and being so gracious to host us," Towns said in an interview with CNN Philippines. "You guys did not have to do that. For everyone, just welcoming us into your culture is truly a blessing, and it's not taken lightly.

"So, thank you to all the Filipino fans who have made us comfortable here, who truly enjoyed the game of basketball, and shown us your appreciation for the game -- not just for your team. To celebrate the game of basketball the way I have is truly special; it's humbling, and it makes me want to work hard as a basketball player. I always said this place is special. I had never been here before, but I just could feel the energy and the passion for basketball. I have always wanted to come here. Thank you for being such a gracious host to all of us. Thank you so much!"

Asked to evaluate the whole Filipino experience, the three-time NBA All-Star responded with the following comments:

"It's been amazing. The country has been amazing. They are so happy about basketball being here. The feeling is mutual. I think the players feel the energy. It's just an amazing time right now for basketball here in the Philippines."

KAT and the Dominican Republic are scheduled to play their first Group I match on Friday when they face Puerto Rico.

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