During the 2023 FIBA World Cup semifinal match between Team USA and Germany, Austin Reaves had a perfect celebration after a 3-pointer.
After connecting on a shot from beyond the arc, Reaves hit the “three to the head” celebration popularized by Carmelo Anthony. The two players were teammates on the Los Angeles Lakers when Reaves was a rookie in 2021-22.
Anthony, who was captain of Team USA during the FIBA World Cup in 2006, was at the game in Manila. He was attending the tournament in the Philippines as FIBA’s World Cup Global Ambassador. Other ambassadors include Pau Gasol (Spain) and Luis Scola (Argentina).
Austin Reaves hits the Melo celebration right in front of him 👌#FIBAWC x #WinForUSA 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/WA0mz4vCDU
— FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 🏆 (@FIBAWC) September 8, 2023
Right after the 3-pointer connected, the three-time Olympic gold medalist was shown on the TV broadcast.
Anthony clearly saw the tribute from Reaves and he saluted back with a post on Twitter.
#AR15 🫡 https://t.co/5a51PY0KJw
— Carmelo Anthony (@carmeloanthony) September 8, 2023
This was an awesome moment for Reaves, who has played well for Team USA during the tournament.
Reaves finished with 21 points but Team USA ultimately was upset by Germany, 113-111, and will not advance to the World Cup championship game.
Instead, Team USA will face Canada for a chance to win the bronze.
