Towns makes up for lost time in dominant return for Dominicans

MANILA (Philippines) - Karl-Anthony Towns last played an international game a decade ago, but the Dominican Republic big man dominated in his return to his national team with a superstar showing in an 87-81 win over Philippines to start the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.

Dominicana fans have waited a long time for the Minnesota Timberwolves power forward to play, last appearing for DR at the FIBA AmeriCup 2013 as a 17-year-old. But Towns himself is just as happy as his compatriots about being in Manila for his World Cup debut.

"I have been waiting for this moment for a long time to play for the DR again. It’s really exciting," Towns told FIBA in the days leading up to the World Cup opener. 

And Towns definitely showed why fans have been hungry to see him, producing a massive double-double of 26 points and 10 rebounds as the carrying force for the Caribbean nation against the host nation.

"I found a way to help my team and country put a W on the board. I'm always going to do that - always play hard and give everything I have and give my team a chance to win," said Towns, who was named the TCL Player of the Game.

Towns actually struggled from the field, making just 5-of-16 field goal attempts, but he more than made up for it from the charity stripe. The 27-year-old converted 15-of-16 free throws - many of those coming after he was fouled driving to the basket as he regularly forced his way past overwhelmed Philippines defenders from the perimeter.

"I didn't make shots today which was weird. I have been making shots a lot. But my teammates are amazing. They set me up in tremendous positions. I'm more than just a shooter. I always have been. I am also a great slasher. I just utitlized another part of my game and it was working tremendously well," said Towns, who made just 1-of-5 from long range.

"Karl is an incredible player. He came here to help us. That's what he has done from day one. He said I want to help this team. Today wasn't his night from the field but he was great from the free throw line. And that is something we have to appreciate," said Andres Feliz, who chipped in 12 points, 8 assists and 6 rebounds in the Dominican win.

Towns made Dominican fans wait a long for time for him to put on the national team colors. But it was worth the wait on opening night of the World Cup - and it could lead to big things in Manila.

FIBA