Jones Cup: Edwards' College Teammate Hammonds Helps South Korea to Victory, Shin-chan Doll Adds Charm

American import Rayshaun Hammonds powered South Korea's KBL team, Wonju DB Promy, to a commanding 110-79 win against the Philippines in their opening game of the William Jones Cup international basketball tournament. Hammonds, who played college ball with NBA star Anthony Edwards at the University of Georgia, led the charge with 22 points.

Hammonds, a 27-year-old who previously played in Germany and Russia before joining the KBL, showcased his talent in the tournament. He was joined by Filipino-American guard Ethan Alvano, who contributed 21 points, and Lee Song-hyun, who hit seven three-pointers for another 21 points. The team's dominant performance set a positive tone for their campaign.

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We are working on our chemistry and hope to stay united and try to win every game. Our main goal here is to win and build chemistry.

Reflecting on the victory, Hammonds emphasized the team's focus on building chemistry and unity. "We are working on our chemistry and hope to stay united and try to win every game," he stated. "Our main goal here is to win and build chemistry."

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He is my brother, he is a top player, I even think he is the best player in the NBA. I love watching him play, and he supports me as much as I support him. We talk about basketball often.

Hammonds also spoke about his close relationship with his former college teammate, NBA All-Star Anthony Edwards. "He is my brother, he is a top player, I even think he is the best player in the NBA," Hammonds shared. "I love watching him play, and he supports me as much as I support him. We talk about basketball often."

Adding a touch of personality, Hammonds was seen with a "Shin-chan" (Crayon Shin-chan) doll attached to his backpack. He revealed that the doll was a gift from fans in Korea, admitting he hadn't watched the anime but planned to understand its appeal after noticing the attention it garnered. Hammonds, who visited Taiwan two years prior, expressed his intention to explore the local culture during his stay, cherishing the opportunity to experience new things wherever he plays.

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Wherever I go, I want to walk around and see new things because you never know if you will have the chance to come again. So I try to enjoy my time here.