There are players who transcend themselves when they wear the national team jersey, and this is the case of Dillon Brooks. Considered a “bad guy” in the NBA, the Rockets winger had amazed everyone in 2023 with his level of play when he was the executioner of the Americans in the final for 3rd place. A year later, for Canada's big return to the Olympic Games, Brooks still seems as driven by his mission. After the victory against Greece, it's time for the rugged Australia this Tuesday.
“I love playing for my country, and it gives me a lot of passion,” Brooks confides to BasketNews. “For the game itself, because you have to pay attention to details for 40 minutes. All these things add a lot more to a player.”
Brooks also loves FIBA basketball, which is more physical, where defenders can get the better of attackers. “It's mostly about seeing how the referee feels that day and how he's going to lead the game.” he explains about the more physical game. “There are mismatches, and a lot of European teams have big forwards and I can impose myself as a big forward. It’s hard for them to play against me. My 3-point shooting puts them in trouble, and my quickness on the fast break and in creating plays are things they don’t see often in the European game. When I play in FIBA basketball, I’m always ready and my teammates find me.”
He doesn't care about the whistles and criticism.
Booed by part of the crowd, he responded in his own way against Greece with his 17 points. But also with kisses or fingers on the mouth after each of his 3-pointers against Greece. “I don't really care… I'm playing my game…” he answers about his relationship with the public. “It keeps those on social media busy. I have a presence all over the world, and I'm going to continue to improve, play my game and enrich it while maintaining that defensive presence.”
A “lieutenant” in the NBA, Brooks appears as a leader in the Canadian jersey alongside big forwards like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and RJ Barrett. That's what appeals to Jordi Fernandez.
“I'm very proud of Dillon. This is what it looks like when you let Dillon Brooks play.” he confided after the victory against the Greeks. “And it's not just about defense. Along with Lu Dort, he's the best defender in the World Cup. But he's also extremely effective offensively.”
