Koloko’s NBA debut celebrated in Cameroon
Global News
Christian Koloko could barely peel his eyes away from his phone in the Raptors locker-room after Wednesday's game.
TORONTO – Christian Koloko could barely peel his eyes away from his phone in the Raptors locker-room after Wednesday’s game.
Toronto’s rookie had just made his NBA debut, and although it was 3 a.m. back home in Cameroon, his friends and family were still wide awake. And the messages of congratulations were pouring in.
“When you start playing basketball, you always think about playing at the highest level. Sometimes, you don’t even think it’s possible until you make it,” the 22-year-old said. “I’m here right now, I know I still have a long ways to go but I’m going to continue to work. Yeah, a dream come true.”
With both Khem Birch and Chris Boucher sidelined with injuries in Wednesday’s season opener — an entertaining 108-105 win over Cleveland — Koloko played 15 minutes.
“It felt amazing,” Koloko said. “When coach called my name, I was like ‘Wow, it’s actually happening.’ I was excited and anxious at the same time but when I stepped on the court, it was basketball.
“I’m living a dream but the game, we won, and that’s the most important thing.”
Koloko had six rebounds and three points, including a huge dunk that had the crowd roaring, and provided something Toronto has been sorely missing.
“Someone tall,” Siakam said, straightfaced.
