MANILA, Philippines — The job is nowhere near done for Austin Reaves and Team USA as they look to return to basketball glory at the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
But after such a convincing win against World No. 10 Italy in the quarterfinals at the Mall of Asia Arena on Tuesday, where they won by 37, 100-63, Reaves can’t help but think they’re heading in the right direction.
“There’s always points of improvement but this is obviously a good step in the right direction,” said Reaves.
“Obviously, we got two more to win. You know, it’s gonna be a tough game whichever opponent we draw next round. But today was a good start.”
Reaves had an efficient outing against Italy with 12 points in less than 20 minutes of play. He also had four rebounds, and three assists.
Now with the energy at an all-time high, the Lakers stalwart says he and his teammates will continue to push for their best efforts.
“It was very important,” he said of the win.
“That was our plan from the get-go, to have a lot of energy, a lot of effort and you know, really go — like you said — make a statement. You know, put our best foot forward. We still have two more to win and the common goal hasn’t changed,” he continued.
Already in the semis, Reaves and Team USA have a couple of days rest before they resume action on Friday, September 8. They will face the winner of the other quarterfinal between Germany and Latvia.