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via Imago

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Team USA has a long history of producing world-class basketball talent. After all, the biggest names (ex and current) in the sport are associated NBA. Naturally, the USA holds an advantage over other countries. Considering this, after receiving a huge boost, the USA will commence the FIBA World Cup during the offseason. And with just a few months left to prepare, we’re hoping it to be an affair to remember.

Orlando Magic star and 2022 Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero has just joined a long list of superstars who have already committed to playing for Team USA.

Paolo Banchero set to choose the USA over Italy

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Exactly one year ago, the Orlando Magic chose the American-Italian basketball star, Paolo Banchero as the #1 overall pick during the 2022 NBA draft. The news spread and took the sporting world by storm.

USA Today via Reuters

Most people expected he will play for Italy. But, the 20-year-old is now representing the United States of America during the 2023 FIBA World Cup.

Shams Charania of The Athletic took to Twitter and verified the news. He states, “Orlando’s Paolo Banchero–the NBA’s Rookie of the Year–has committed to play for Team USA’s national team at the FIBA World Cup in the Philippines this summer.”

Banchero’s first NBA season was amazing. After making a name for himself with Duke, the Rookie of the Year started all 72 games for the Magic this season. Considering his numbers, the youngster will be a great asset for Team USA.

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The FIBA World Cup begins on the 25th of August and will run until the 10th of September. Alongside the Philippines, Indonesia and Japan are also the co-hosts of the prestigious tournament.

Other elite stars will join Banchero

Banchero will not be alone in his endeavors. Los Angeles Lakers star Austin Reaves and Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards will also join him. But, that’s not all. 

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Mikal Bridges, Bobby Portis, and Tyrese Haliburton will also represent Team USA.

Meanwhile, the Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr., and Jalen Brunson are the next names to commit to Team USA. With such a stacked roster, the United States of America will definitely lift the title.

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What are your predictions for the FIBA World Cup? Let us know in the comments below.