US coach expects exciting displays from team at International Basketball Week in Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI: US national team coach Steve Kerr has revealed his excitement at taking part in two preparation matches against Greece and Germany in Abu Dhabi ahead of the start of the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Manila on Aug. 26.

The Americans demolished Puerto Rico 117-74 in their first exhibition game in Las Vegas on Aug. 9, and followed it up with victories over Slovenia and Spain in Malaga before arriving in the UAE capital for International Basketball Week.

It will be the first time the US national team has played in Abu Dhabi.

Kerr said: “We are very excited to play in Abu Dhabi. I think a couple of the guys have been here because they played in the NBA (National Basketball Association) pre-season games last year.

“I have never been here, so I am excited to bring the team and I hope our team gives the fans a chance to see a lot of the players that they already know from watching the NBA, and that we make basketball even more popular in Abu Dhabi.”

Bobby Portis, the 28-year-old, 6ft 11in Milwaukee Bucks guard will make his debut with Team USA on his return to Abu Dhabi for a second time after playing last year in the NBA pre-season games which saw the Milwaukee Bucks take on the Atlanta Hawks at the Etihad Arena.

He said: “Speaking on my time there in Abu Dhabi back in October last year, obviously it is always different going to a new environment that you have never been to, and it was great going to a new culture, and they are big time basketball fans that don’t get a chance to see us that much in person.

“So being able to go there, and put on two games against the Hawks, I had a great time, and the fan support was crazy. The arena was sold out and packed, I am excited for this time as well.