SANTO DOMINGO (Dominican Republic) - Karl-Anthony Towns has firmly declared he is to play for the Dominican Republic at the FIBA Basketball World Cup.

"I can't wait to go suit up again, put that jersey on and play some amazing FIBA World Cup basketball."

The star big man posted a video message announcing his intent on Instagram.

Towns says in the message: "What's up everyone? I'm checking in real quick with some big, big, big news. I'm so proud to be saying I'll be suiting up soon and representing my roots, the Dominican Republic, again.

"It's always been bigger than the game - representing my mother's country, my country, the Dominican Republic.

"I can't wait to go suit up again, put that jersey on and play some amazing FIBA World Cup basketball. I'll see you on the court. I'll see you over there in the Philippines."

Towns was only this week included on an extended squad for the country so his statement will be reassuring to fans that are eager to watch him play for the national team for the first time since the FIBA AmeriCup 2013.

The Dominican Republic are looking like a national team that will have every chance to advance to the Quarter-Finals of the World Cup.

They will play in Group A with the Philippines, Angola, and Italy. A top-two finish would put them up against the first two games from Group B, which consists of China, Puerto Rico, Serbia, and South Sudan, in the Second Round.

An additional cause for excitement for fans of the Dominican Republic is that Lester Quinones, a player for the Golden State Warriors on a two-way contract with the Santa Cruz Warriors, has joined a national team training camp in the country.

"It's a great opportunity," he said. "I'm excited to do it, to be here representing my mom, my family. I'm very excited."

Quinones, 22, played for the Dominican Republic at the FIBA U18 Americas Championship in 2018 and averaged 17.5 points, 6.3 rebounds and 3.5 assists. Before turning pro, he played college basketball for Memphis.

FIBA