Where is Karl-Anthony Towns From? A Look at His Dominican Heritage
The NBA All-Star Game has undergone a significant change this year, introducing a World team to compete against U.S. squads. While many eyes are on international superstars like Victor Wembanyama, Luka Dončić, and Nikola Jokić, a surprising name on the World team roster has sparked curiosity: Karl-Anthony Towns of the New York Knicks. But where is Karl-Anthony Towns from, and what’s the story behind his inclusion?
KAT’s Dominican Roots
Karl-Anthony Towns isn’t just representing the United States on the basketball court. He proudly carries the heritage of the Dominican Republic, a connection stemming from his late mother, Jacqueline Cruz. His mother’s Dominican ancestry is the reason he’s eligible – and chooses – to represent the Dominican Republic in international competitions.
Towns first donned the Dominican Republic jersey in 2012, at just 16 years old, in a friendly match against the United States. This wasn’t a recent decision; his connection to the island nation began much earlier. He first visited the Dominican Republic at age 15 and immediately felt a strong bond.
“To see the way my mom’s country is, how beautiful it is, see a different side of the world, was eye-opening,” Towns shared with Andscape in 2017. “It was amazing.”
A Deeper Connection After Loss
The significance of representing the Dominican Republic deepened tragically with the passing of his mother in 2020 due to complications from COVID-19. Since then, playing for the Dominican Republic has become even more meaningful for Towns, a way to honor her memory and celebrate her heritage. He returned to play for the Dominican Republic in the 2023 FIBA World Cup, driven by a renewed sense of purpose.
“With my mom’s passing, I felt an urgency to do it,” he explained to Olympics.com. He continues to embrace every opportunity to represent the Dominican Republic on the global stage.
Why This Matters
Karl-Anthony Towns’ story is a powerful reminder of the diverse backgrounds that enrich the NBA. His commitment to representing his mother’s homeland showcases the importance of heritage and the enduring bonds of family. It adds another layer of depth to his already impressive career and makes his presence on the World team all the more compelling.
You can learn more about the NBA’s international players and the FIBA World Cup on the FIBA website.
