Newly-appointed Blackwater head coach Jeffrey Cariaso is thrilled to watch the United States when the country hosts the FIBA Basketball World Cup from 25 August to 12 September.
He, however, wants the Americans to compete as a complete unit bannered by the superstars of the National Basketball Association.
“These players are still some of the stars in the NBA, but in our eyes, they can somewhat be classified as Level 2 stars in the big league,” Cariaso told Daily Tribune.
“Of course, the Filipinos who know their basketball so well and can be considered the most passionate fans in the world, would love to see the top-level stars playing in the World Cup.”
The Americans are having a hard time putting up a solid roster.
Superstars like Anthony Davis and LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers, Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics, James Harden of the Philadelphia 76ers, and Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson of the Golden State Warriors have all begged off due to various reasons.
With that, young and untested stars were tasked to banner the Americans.
Reigning NBA Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero of the Orlando Magic is at the helm together with NBA Defensive Player Jaren Jackson of the Memphis Grizzlies, Brandon Ingram of the New Orleans Pelicans, Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves, Tyrese Haliburton of the Indiana Pacers, Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks, Mikal Bridges of the Brooklyn Nets, Bobby Portis of the Milwaukee Bucks, Walker Kessler of the Utah Jazz, and Cam Johnson of the Brooklyn Nets.
Steve Kerr of the Golden State Warriors will serve as head coach with Filipino-American Erik Spoelstra of the Miami Heat and Tyron Lue of the Los Angeles Clippers as chief deputies.
Still, Cariaso wanted to see the NBA’s brightest and most seasoned stars.
“I, for one, would love to see some of the veteran players joining Team USA and I won’t be surprised if we’re going to see their inclusion in the days to come,” Cariaso said.
“Of course, I would love to see Steph Curry and Jason Tatum. They can provide the veteran presence needed by Team USA. With the current roster on hand, their experience would be much needed by the squad.”
