Lakers' Georgian forward explodes with 20 points against Israel, team media raves: 'We str

　　Los Angeles Lakers new signing, Georgian star Sandro Mamukelashvili, recently shined on the international stage after leaving the team's mini-camp in Slovenia. In a friendly match for the Georgian national team, Mamukelashvili delivered an all-around performance, leading his team to a comeback win over Israel. The impressive display prompted Lakers-specific media to exclaim: "The Lakers really struck gold with this one!"

　　Exploded for 20 points, filled the stat sheet, teamed up with NBA big man for comeback win

　　To prepare for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifiers, Mamukelashvili left the Lakers' training camp in Slovenia, organized by Luka Doncic, early to report to the Georgian national team.

　　In the friendly against Israel, Georgia overcame a double-digit deficit in the first quarter. Mamukelashvili showcased his versatile inside-outside skills, scoring 20 points, along with 6 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals. He teamed up with Orlando Magic center Goga Bitadze (team-high 22 points) and veteran Tornike Shengelia (17 points, 9 rebounds) to dominate the paint, sparking an 8-0 run at a crucial moment to help Georgia secure a 101-90 victory.

　　Lakers media praise: A two-way matchup nightmare

　　Mamukelashvili's all-around game quickly drew attention from Los Angeles media and fans. Lakers-specific media outlet LakeShowCP posted on social media, praising the signing: "The Lakers might have really struck gold with Mamukelashvili! 20 points, 6 assists, 6 rebounds, 3 steals – he has outside shooting, playmaking, finishing at the rim, and defensive ability. If Mamukelashvili can bring this kind of performance back to Los Angeles, the Lakers will be a 'big problem' for other teams."

　　World Cup tickets at stake: will return to U.S. after qualifiers

　　Although this was just a friendly, the next two qualifiers are crucial for Georgia. Georgia currently sits at 3-3 in the second round of qualifying group play, tied with Greece and Portugal at the bottom of the standings.

　　They will face Montenegro on Friday and then take on Greece, which will be without Giannis Antetokounmpo, on Monday, as they fight for one of the top three spots in the group to advance. After the FIBA international window next week, Mamukelashvili and other NBA players will return to the U.S. to focus on their respective NBA preseason preparations.