Born and raised in Edison, New Jersey, Karl-Anthony Towns grew up like any other kid. Despite his mother being a native of the Dominican Republic, Towns did not know a lot about his mother's home country except for their food, which he ate a lot of during family barbecues at his grandmother's house.
However, his understanding of the country changed when he was brought by his mom to its capital, Santo Domingo, when he was 15-years-old. He described that trip as “special” and “important” as he learned more about their history and culture.
“My whole life leading up to that point I’d only seen the USA. To see the way my mom’s country is, how beautiful it is, see a different side of the world, it was eye-opening. It was amazing. I had so much fun. I enjoyed it.”
That trip helped the Minnesota Timberwolves center make his decision easier in 2012 to represent the Dominican Republic in international competitions instead of the U.S. He has no regrets in doing so as it's important for him to represent his mother and relatives.
“It was really special to me. It was a chance to represent my mother and a big part of my family. It was an amazing experience. I was very excited. When an opportunity like presents itself, it’s hard to say no.”
“I made my decision and I never look back on it. I do everything I can to take [Dominican Republic] to the next level and get them to the Olympics.”
At only 21-year-old, Towns still has a lot of years left to play for the Dominican Republic and bring their basketball program to greater heights. Together with Al Horford, Luis Montero, Charlie Villanueva and other young Dominicans who play in the NCAA, this is certainly one of the most exciting times for the country's national team and their chance to make a mark in the world stage.
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