NBA star Kyle Anderson makes international debut for China in humbling by Italy in Trentino Cup

Anderson contributes 11 of the team’s 61 points but China are no match for the hosts in the final of the mini-tournament

‘We had been together for 10 days only – more training and matches will help us find some better form,’ Anderson says, with World Cup less than three weeks away

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Kyle Anderson was drafted straight into the China team after completing his naturalisation. Photo: Xinhua

Published: 3:07pm, 6 Aug 2023Updated: 3:16pm, 6 Aug 2023

Newly naturalised Chinese citizen Kyle Anderson made his long-awaited international debut in a mini-tournament in Italy on Saturday, but his presence could not prevent China suffering a convincing 79-61 loss to the hosts in the final.

Having obtained his citizenship last month, the NBA star was introduced by head coach Aleksandar Dordevic towards the end of the opening quarter of the Trentino Cup decider.

The 29-year-old Minnesota Timberwolves forward, who sat out China’s 86-66 win over Cape Verde on Friday, finished with 11 points and six rebounds on 50 per cent shooting, while sinking five of his six free throws in 20 minutes.

“I am just trying to focus on the moment and try the best I can in what I need to do,” said Anderson, who had his Chinese name Li Kai’er printed on the back of his jersey.

Saturday’s loss, China’s fourth in six overseas games, also saw Serbian Dordevic ejected early in the second half for his second technical foul.

“We should have played better and worked harder [after that ], the nine-year NBA veteran added.

“We failed to do it this time, but I believe with this experience, we will be better next time.”

Kyle Anderson of China shoots during his international debut against Italy. Photo: Xinhua