Despite representing the country two years ago in the FIBA World Cup qualifiers, Chris Duarte He is excited to be in the national team again but this time in search of another goal.
The shooting guard for the Sacramento Kings in the NBA confirmed that qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games is a new experience in his career.
While speaking with El Nacional’s sports editors, Chris Duarte explained that the feelings of being with the national team on this journey to obtain the Olympic ticket are very different from what he experienced in 2022.
“This is a different energy, something I haven’t had the opportunity to experience,” the Puerto Plata native said.
He considered that being called to achieve the Olympic dream is something that makes him proud and motivates him.
Chris is clear that the challenge is difficult, which is why he says that “the goal is to make history.”
Aware of the level of players that the Dominican Republic will face in the first round of qualifying in Greece, Duarte points out that in order to realize the dream, the Creole core must be focused and united on and off the field.
You can read: The basketball team begins its path to the Olympic qualifiers
“We have to take the qualifying match one at a time and focus on what we have to do,” he said.
One of the things that motivated Chris Duarte the most to be in this process with the national team was the feeling of the warmth of the people.
“I am proud to see how people come here to train to show me affection and love,” he explained. He added that not only does this support from the people stay with him, but the fans also show this support to every member of the team.
He continued: “This is something that makes us feel good as players and it is important that we feel this affection from people.”
Duarte, who turned 27 last Thursday, explained that training with the national team is a way to get in good shape for the next season in the NBA.
“I’m here because I love working and this is an opportunity for me to prepare myself. Being here helps me a lot,” he explains.
He pointed out that he prefers to train with the national team instead of sitting at home.
“I work with the boys here and it keeps me in good shape,” Chris added.