With so many high-profile dropouts for Team USA ahead of the 2019 FIBA World Cup, point guard Kemba Walker is the biggest star on the squad. The new Boston Celtics guard isn't exactly a stranger to the limelight, but he's still appreciative of all the love he's receiving as Team USA's top man.
Walker got a rousing ovation running out of the tunnel before Team USA's 88-67 victory over the Czech Republic in Shanghai, and there were Walker jerseys (both Hornets and Celtics) spattered throughout the crowd. He's just soaking it all in, per ESPN's Brian Windhorst:
“To know you have fans in other places, especially me, it was very humbling,” Walker said. “It's just a great feeling.”
Walker had 13 points on 6-of-8 shooting to go along with four assists to help lead the Americans to their big victory over the Czechs.
Walker has been looking forward to this opportunity for years after being a part of multiple Select Teams over the years. He acknowledges how “special” it is to get all this attention, which isn't just coming from the fans, but also from the opposition:
“It's always good to have respect from opposing teams, especially in FIBA basketball,” Walker said. “I'm just a kid from New York, from the Bronx. It's a great feeling to have fans all around the world for me.”
Kemba Walker and Team USA plays Turkey on Tuesday.
Follow Us
Subscribe