(ArabNews) ABU DHABI: Erik Spoelstra, the assistant head coach of the men’s USA Basketball national team, has expressed his excitement about the USA Basketball Showcase, part of International Basketball Week and tipping off on Thursday at Abu Dhabi’s Etihad Arena.
But there is more reason for his excitement than just the historic event itself.
Spoelstra, whose mother was born in the Philippines, is looking forward to witnessing the passionate Filipino basketball fans he has heard so much about, both in Abu Dhabi and at the upcoming FIBA Basketball World Cup.
As well as USAB playing in the Gulf for the first time, the World Cup will be held in three countries for the first time: Indonesia, Japan, and the Philippines.
While embracing his American identity Spoelstra maintains a strong connection to his Filipino heritage and the next few weeks, he said, would allow him to harmoniously blend both aspects… Read More