Egypt displayed significant promise in its debut at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.
Ranked 55th in the world, the Pharaohs managed to keep pace with the 8th-ranked Lithuania, especially during the middle quarters. However, they eventually lost momentum and were defeated 67-93 on Friday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
In what can be deemed a commendable performance, Assem Marei of Egypt expressed his pride in the team’s effort against the European powerhouse. Lithuania had previously achieved third place in the 2010 edition of the sport’s grandest stage.
“They’re a very experienced team.
“Had a good battle today and I think after this game, we got better as a team. Facing a great opponent like that I think will help us against other opponents who are not as strong as Lithuania,” said Marei, who led the Egyptians with 14 points, nine rebounds, and three steals.
Egypt’s upcoming matches in Group D will be against Mexico and Montenegro, both of which are ranked lower than Lithuania. The Black Mountains, led by Nikola Vucevic, are ranked 18th, while the 12 Guerreros hold the 31st position.
Marei’s remarkable performance becomes even more noteworthy as it was against Lithuania’s superstar, Jonas Valanciunas. Valanciunas maintained double-digit points in all but his rookie year with Toronto during his 11 seasons in the NBA. He also secured over 10.0 rebounds in his last five seasons with Memphis and New Orleans.
“The man is a monster. He’s a great player that’s why he’s been playing in the NBA for so long and will still play for a long time in the NBA,” the 6-foot-9 center praised on the Pelicans big.
“Great touch around the rim, big body, does a lot of things having a big man like that. Brings a lot of quality especially a team like Lithuania who has so many weapons,” added Marei.
“Great player and every time you compete against players like that, it’s always a pleasure.”
Marei is set for another showdown with an NBA superstar big man, Vucevic, on Sunday.
