OKINAWA (Japan) - Edy Tavares feels that a lot of people do not have an idea about Cape Verde.

He hopes to change that through the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023.

"We know the importance of this (World Cup)," offered the veteran big man. "So, we got to try and take care of it. and try to get a win. And, try to make more people know about our country because we are small. Sometimes, they don't know where Cape Verde is."

"So I think if we do a good job, maybe it's gonna change," he added with a smile.

Cape Verde booked their first-ever trip to FIBA's flagship event via African Qualifiers, securing their ticket by beating Cote d'Ivoire in the final day of the competitions. With just around 600,000 people in the population, they made history as the smallest nation to ever participate in the World Cup.

Tavares, undeniably one of the greatest talents the country has ever produced, is immensely proud to be part of this special batch of Blue Sharks that have made their way into basketball's grandest stage, which he said no one thought would happen.

"This is the dream," he said.

"Nobody thought we would get close to playing in this. This is amazing for me to be alive and to play in this, not see it on TV when I retire, [watching] with the older generation," added the 31-year-old. "So, I'm [feeling] good to be part of the generation that participated in their first World Cup."

Not only is he part of the whole journey but Tavares also serves as the team's rock given his vast experience. A part of the men's national team since 2013, he is arguably the most decorated of the crew, given his numerous championships and accolades as a professional.

It's a role he's fully embraced.

"It means everything. Because I always wanted to try and help my country. For me, this is amazing," he expressed. "I'm trying to play with my national team at the highest level possible, to be remembered and to feel that I did something good for my country and for the national team."

Definitely. he'd be remembered. And on Monday night, Tavares further added to his legacy by helping the Blue Sharks come from behind and pull the rug underneath Venezuela, 81-75, for their first win in the World Cup, much to the joy of their fans who witnessed it live at the Okinawa Arena.

The 2.21 M (7'3") center finished with 6 points, 14 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals, and 2 blocks as he came through with important plays on both ends down the stretch, enabling his side to complete the comeback from as much as 13 points down in the second quarter.

For him, this win was proof that they aren't just here to participate in the World Cup.

"This is amazing for me, for the whole team, and the country. For us to live the dream we worked to get one day, it's amazing. We want to do our best and reach our goal. The ambition is to win," said Tavares as Cape Verde improved to 1-1 in the Group F standings.

They're shooting for the stars, too.

"Now, we're gonna try to win to go to the Olympics," he said.

FIBA