Curtis Washington ''can't wait'' to face ex-teammate Delany in Guam-New Zealand qualifiers clash

HAGATNA (Guam) - The entire island of Guam is highly anticipating the upcoming first window of the FIBA Asia Cup 2021 Qualifiers, but it might not be a stretch to say that Curtis Washington is the most hyped-up person around for these matchups ahead.

"I am extremely excited for these upcoming games," Washington expressed. "I’ve been looking forward to it all year."

The 28-year-old was the first one to officially confirm through the announcements of the Guam Basketball Confederation (GBC) that he was going to be a part of the national team at the Asia Cup Qualifiers. Even before the expanded 24-player pool was announced, Washington was already committed to help continue Guam’s run to Asia Cup 2021 after going undefeated through the East Region Pre-Qualifiers in 2018. 

"Our dominating run in the Pre-Qualifiers was huge for our whole team," said Washington, who averaged 10.3 points and 7.3 rebounds per game at the Pre-Qualifiers in Thailand. "Having that momentum coming into these games changes our mindset, confidence, and drive for the better. Now we know what we can do, so it’s time to come together again as a family and continue the success."

Even with a population of less than 200,000, Guam is trying to climb the rankings of basketball nations in FIBA Asia-Oceania. These Asia Cup Qualifiers give opportunities for players like Washington to showcase their talents and test it against others who are considered among the best in Asia.

One powerhouse they will be facing early on in New Zealand. The two teams are set to clash at Calvo Fieldhouse in Yigo Village, Guam on 23 February at 17:00 (GMT +10).

"When we host New Zealand, it’s going to be a very big deal. There will be an electric environment in the gym as we will have the whole island behind us in support," said Washington.

Washington is looking forward to this game in particular, not only for the fans of Guam basketball but also for himself personally. The 2.08M (6'10") big man has played in several countries all over the world, one of those places being New Zealand. In his time playing for the Nelson Giants in New Zealand’s National Basketball League (NBL), Washington cultivated good relationships with his teammates who he might now be facing in the upcoming days.

 (Washington and Delany with the Nelson Giants in 2017)

"I can’t wait to see all my boys from New Zealand especially Finn!" Washington said in mention of the Tall Blacks’ standout Finn Delaney who recently played at the World Cup in China. "He’s a good friend of mine and a great teammate. It will be good to see lots of other friendly faces as well, but when those 40 minutes start… we go to war."

Guam and Washington will need that intensity going up against New Zealand who finished as the runners-up at Asia Cup 2017 in Beirut. 

"Asia Cup basketball fans and fans from all over can expect to be entertained watching Guam in these games," Washington claimed with excitement. "We are going to play with a lot of energy and passion. I think people will enjoy watching us just having fun on the court together!"

FIBA