FIBA Americas - World Championship Qualifying Tournament

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

The tournament starts in a few hours, with the following games:

USA vs. Panama
Venezuela vs. Brazil
Argentina vs. Mexico
Uruguay vs. Dominican Republic

More information on:
http://www.fibaamericas.com/torneos1_us.asp?t=XGLQKBLQOI

http://web.fiba.com/pages/en/events/blockbusters/world_champ_men_06/fiba_amer_cham_main.asp

[kolko]

USA vs Panama is about to start. Argentines can watch it in TyC Sports.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Yeah, sorry, make it a few minutes, rather than hours! :spin

The gym is quite empty, USA will play in white, Panama in blue.

[kolko]

Usa Starting lineup: Beasley, Slay, McGhee, Edney, Bell

[Kori Ellis]

Is there somewhere on the FIBA site that has live stats?

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Is there somewhere on the FIBA site that has live stats?

There should be one, but it's a dead link.

So far 8:00 in the first quarter, USA 5 PAN 0.

EDIT: In the FIBA Americas site the link (http://online.fibaamericas.com/pc2/defa.asp) works, but the stats aren't updating.

[Kori Ellis]

Thanks for the updates. I still can't believe that we don't have ESPN Deportes here. :pctoss

[kolko]

This will be an easy win for USA. Panama is awful.

[Kori Ellis]

I just want to make sure that my friend, Noel Felix doesn't get hurt in these games. Hopefully he doesn't get much playing time :lol

He's going to some NBA training camp and needs to stay healthy.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Lol, the Panama center (Cardenas) is one of the fatest basketball players I have ever seen. This should be an easy win for USA.

Panama turning the ball over way too much, USA is running, some nice dunks.

4:25 left in the 1st. quarter

USA 19
PAN 7

[kolko]

Lol, the Panama center (Cardenas) is one of the fatest basketball players I have ever seen.

Yeah, but he made some nice shots.

Alex Scales just made two straight three pointers.

[Kori Ellis]

Alex Scales just made two straight three pointers.

Good. I know that guy too - he will definitely be in NBA training camp this year.

[kolko]

Another three pointer by Scales.

Charlie Bell is playing great.

Noel Felix in.

[Kori Ellis]

Charlie Bell is playing great.

I think he's by far their best player. He got a deal with the Milwaukee Bucks.

[kolko]

The fat guy just made a three pointer :lol

[Kori Ellis]

What's the score now?

[kolko]

End of first quarter.

Usa 30 Panama 24

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Yeah, but he made some nice shots.

Alex Scales just made two straight three pointers.

Yes, maybe he is in the Pero Cameron rugby+basketball style! Sick three pointer by the fat man, and then two free throws in the next play.

USA was doing good job of passing the ball and looking for the open shot, but now they had some stupid turnovers. The defense needs some improvement.

Scales and Bell lead USA in scoring.

End of 1st. Quarter
USA 30
PAN 24

[samikeyp]

McHone is coaching? We're screwed. :p

[kolko]

Live scores and stats:

http://online.fibaamericas.com/pc2/defa_US.asp

[Kori Ellis]

Thanks :)

[Kori Ellis]

Wow, Alex has 12 points already. Good for him!

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Live scores and stats:

http://online.fibaamericas.com/pc2/defa_US.asp

Ah, I posted that link but it wasn't working for me because I use Firefox, but I loaded the page on IE and it worked.

4:30 left in the Second Quarter.

USA 40
PAN 33

[kolko]

Halftime

USA 50
Panama 35

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Score at half time:

USA 50
PAN 35

USA lost it after a very good start, they reduced the intensity on the boards and the ball circulation in attack, but this is enough to beat Panama.

[Kori Ellis]

I need to ask the Argentineans a question. On what TV station in Argentina yesterday did Manu say about the Spurs having training camp in the Virgin Islands? Do you have contact information for that station?

[kolko]

I need to ask the Argentineans a question. On what TV station in Argentina yesterday did Manu say about the Spurs having training camp in the Virgin Islands? Do you have contact information for that station?

TyC Sports, the same channel that is showing this tournament.

www.tycsports.com

The program is "Mar de Fondo"

[Kori Ellis]

Thank you very much.

[Kori Ellis]

Well it looks like a big win for the US with Alex Scales leading the way.

Noel didn't play in the second half (Thank God :lol).

[kolko]

Final

Usa 94 Panama 72

[kolko]

Another game: Brazil 111 Venezuela 88

[Kori Ellis]

How did Alex Garcia do in that game?

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Brazil destroyed Venezuela, with a final score of 111-88. Brazil is clearly one of the candidates to win this, with NBA players like Alex García, Leandrinho Barbosa, Anderson Varejao, and draft prospect Tiago Splitter. Tomorrow a very interesting game, Brazil vs. USA.

1st. quarter:

Argentina 9
Mexico 6

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Damn kolko, you're beating me by seconds posting stuff! :lol

[Kori Ellis]

Brazil will destroy the USA too. :lol They have a very talented team.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

End of 1st. quarter

ARG 28
MEX 18

I'm trying to find Alex Garcia's numbers, but the official website sucks, and I can't find the box score in any Brazilian site. The only thing I found was that Leandrinho was the top scorer of the game with 31 points.

[NZHayden]

wheres all the big name players for usa?

[kolko]

How did Alex Garcia do in that game?

Alex scored 12 points and Leandrinho Barbosa 31. I saw a nice dunk by Alex.

[Kori Ellis]

wheres all the big name players for usa?

USA decided to send all non-NBA players.

[danyel]

How did Alex Garcia do in that game?

Brasil: 111 (30 28 26 27)

Venezuela: 88 (23 7 30 28)

Brasil: Marcelinho (19), Leandrinho (28), Anderson Varejao (6), Tiago (6), Guilherme (15). Después ingresaron Alex (15), Murilo (7), Caio (4), Nezinho (4), Marcelo Huertas (2), Jefferson (3), Rafael (2)

Venezuela: Víctor David Díaz (8), Richard Lugo (7), Oscar Torres (18), Héctor Romero (24), Diego Guevara (12). Después ingresaron Ernesto Mijares, Luis Julio (1), Carlos Morris (4), Askia Jones (4), Herbert Bayona (5), Miguel Marriaga, Tomás Aguilera (5)

http://www.2001.com.ve/noticias_2001online.asp?registro=52019

[samikeyp]

Askia Jones (4),

Ski Jones plays for Venezuela? That kid grew up here. Went to Marshall High School. Graduated 88 or 89.

[Kori Ellis]

Thanks Danyel.

[kolko]

Mexico 96 Argentina 82

[danyel]

Mexico kicked ass in the 2nd half, Argentina disappeared in the 4th.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

I knew watching too many Spurs games would have a negative effect on Argentina! :lol

We shot 47% from the FT line, 31% from three point, and we had third and fourth quarters collapses, like those nights where the Spurs seem to vanish in the court. Our defense sucked major time too (96 points allowed to a Najera-less Mexico).

From a seven point lead in the middle of the 3rd. quarter to a 16 points deficit in the fourth. Until that collapse, I liked how Farabello ran the point (IMO, he should be in the World Championships to replace Montecchia), Mazzaro's shooting (the only one who could hit something from beyond the arc), and Roman Gonzalez defence. Quinteros, Kammerichs and Jasen were too chaotic at times with poor execution that caused many turnovers. :pctoss

I know Hernandez is using all these tournaments to try new players, but losing to a Najera-less Mexico? Crap...

Hehe, I know the team with most of the Olympic Champions lost to Mexico too, back in 2003, but they were absolutely tired from the Serbian trainning style after a long season in their clubs. At least they had an excuse! :lol

[waly.mg]

USA beats Brazil by 2: 96-94

Last plays:

Reloj Descripción Jugada Diff P
00:01 TL anotado por Greer (06) de USA 94 94 0 4
00:01 TL anotado por Greer (06) de USA 94 95 -1 4
00:01 TL anotado por Greer (06) de USA 94 96 -2 4
00:01 CC3 fallado por Dos Santos (05) de Brazil

Whit 1 second left USA down by 1

[picnroll]

Got a boxscore waly.mg?

[waly.mg]

Not yet, Only LIve but now Canada is playing

But Barboza (Suns) More than 30 Pts

[picnroll]

Boxscore is up link (http://www.fibaamericas.com/fnabox.asp?g=A&n=3&r=4565)

Looks like Bell and Scales had good games. Barbosa lit USA up.

[timvp]

That's a huge win for the US. Brazil is the favorite to win the tournament. Their roster is stacked with NBA and future NBA talent.

Props.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Venezuela got their first victory, a 100-91 win over Canada.

Boxscore (http://www.fibaamericas.com/fnabox.asp?g=A&n=4&r=4565)

In progress:
Uruguay 38
vs. Mexico 33

And, later in the last game of the day, Argentina faces a tough challenge, Puerto Rico. They'll play without Carlos Arroyo, but the rest of their key players will be there (Peter John Ramos, Rick Apodaca, Elias Ayuso, Antonio Latimer, Karim Fajardo, etc.).

In other news, Anderson Varejao had to leave the game against the US, with an elbow injury. No news on his status yet.

Tomorrow USA plays against Canada, Brazil against Panama, and Argentina will have a day off.

[Kori Ellis]

In other news, Anderson Varejao had to leave the game against the US, with an elbow injury. No news on his status yet.


Cavs' Varejao dislocates shoulder

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) -- Brazilian forward Anderson Varejao will miss the rest of the Americas World Championship qualifying tournament after dislocating his right shoulder on Thursday in Brazil's 96-94 loss to the United States.

Varejao, an energetic rookie last season with the NBA's Cleveland Cavaliers, was elbowed by U.S. forward Aaron McGhee while fighting for a rebound with two minutes remaining.

He immediately grabbed his right shoulder and left the court grimacing in pain. The U.S. won the game with three last-second free throws by Lynn Greer.

"The initial diagnostic is that he needs 15 days of rest," Brazilian coach Lula Ferreira said after the game. "It's a hard blow for us."

Brazil is the favorite in the 10-team tournament, which began on Wednesday and ends on Sep. 4.

[JMarkJohns]

Paging Tiago Splitter.

Bad loss for Brazil. Love what Barbosa's doing, but understand it's against inferior competition for the most part, though, Bell is a solid player (All-Star in Europe) and Edney should be in the League.

If all this does is give Barbosa his confidense back, it'll be huge.

He was completely lossed last year. The 5 assists tonight (and 5.5 average) was most encouraging of all the stats.

[Kori Ellis]

Brazil dominated the US in the warmup games in Brazil last week. But the USA team thinks they are coming together as a team, so perhaps they are getting better. I really thought they'd lose today .. very good win.

[kolko]

First victory for Argentina, 96-79 over Puerto Rico.

[Kori Ellis]

USA is getting killed by Canada so far today - 40-24. No one is doing much for US - Lynn Greer has six points. Alex Scales has only 2 points and Noel hasn't played yet.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

@halftime:

CAN 49
USA 28

Canada is owning USA lately (U-21 World Championships), but it ain't over yet, there's plenty of time left for the Canadians to collapse.

[Kori Ellis]

Noel told me after they played this Canada team in Brazil that they are incredibly physical. He said that they have one big guy who seriously tries to hurt people to keep them out of the post. So I'm sure he's thrilled that he hasn't got much playing time this game. :lol I hope he doesn't play in the second half.

[CubanMustGo]

Crap. Canada doing the US in basketball ... that must be how they felt when we finally beat them in hockey. :lol

59-34 Canucks about halfway through the 3rd. Whoever Denham Brown and Juan Mendez are, they're killing the Yanks.

[Kori Ellis]

Denham Brown is a 6'5 shooting guard who went to UConn. I don't know about Mendez -- he doesn't sound Canadian to me :lol

[CubanMustGo]

Mendez plays for Niagara U ... lives in Montreal. 6'8", 245#, senior. "...Needs 323 points to pass Michael Meeks of Canisius (1993-96) as Canada’s career scoring leader in Division I." Like that's a hotly contested category, but the young man seems to have some skills.

http://www.purpleeagles.com/sports/mbball/rosters/displayPlayer.asp?PLAYER_ID=875

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Wow, I think I know who the beater is Kori. Canada's Richard Anderson, he fought for a loose ball with Mc Ghee, and a brawl almost breaks out. He also made some hard fouls in defence.

Noel Felix has entered the game, 4th. quarter: CAN 74- USA 56.

[Kori Ellis]

Canada's Richard Anderson, he fought for a loose ball with Mc Ghee, and a brawl almost breaks out. He also made some hard fouls in defence.

Yeah that must be who it is. Noel hated playing Canada when they were in Brazil because of it. He said all their players felt like they were in danger of getting injured by that guy.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

USA made a last run but it wasn't enough. The Canadians played very well at both ends of the court, while the US had an awful game.

Final score:
USA 76
CAN 92

[Kori Ellis]

Oh well they aren't in bad position, thanks to that miraculous victory over Brazil. Lynn Greer seems to be the only US player who had a decent game. Even though other players put up some stats, it was in garbage time. It looks like the US really sucked in the first half. For the game, 19 turnovers and only nine assists isn't going to cut it.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Oh well they aren't in bad position, thanks to that miraculous victory over Brazil. Lynn Greer seems to be the only US player who had a decent game. Even though other players put up some stats, it was in garbage time. It looks like the US really sucked in the first half.

Yes, their two previous wins puts them in a position where they can lose their remaining game and still advance to the next round. However, the results of the first round affect the standings in the secound round.

Scales and Bell were Missing In Action, after they had a good couple of games.

[reader]

Just noticed one of the U21 players on the Canadian team, Kendall, he is the guy who scored 40 pts against the U21 US team. Guess he got the call-up.

[Trainwreck2100]

http://img389.imageshack.us/img389/253/canadasux2mx.gif

[Kori Ellis]

US just lost 71-70 to Venezuela. By the online play-by-play: The US was down by 3 with 26 seconds left. Noel hit two free throws to make it down 1. There was a turnover by Venezuela to give the US the ball back but Charlie Bell committed a turnover at the end and they lost.

Did anyone watch this game to know why Alex Scales didn't play??

[Nikos]

Do you have a link Kori? Why does the USA have these kind of players on the team?

[Kori Ellis]

Do you have a link Kori? Why does the USA have these kind of players on the team?

They supposedly picked the best non-NBA players for the tournament. They wanted a lot of guys who had FIBA experience.

Go to http://www.usabasketball.com for all the info on the team, etc
Go to http://www.fibaamericas.com/torneos1_us.asp?t=XGLQKBLQOI for info on the tournament.

USA will already go to the 2nd round with their record (8 teams advance to round 2).

They need to be in the top 4 teams (not counting Argentina) at the end of the tournament to qualify for the World Championship.

[Nikos]

Why are they having so much trouble with Cananda and Ven? Flores, Denham, and Mendez are solid sure. But Isn't Denham not even NBA calibur and Mendez? Why are they schooling these guys?

[Kori Ellis]

Why are they having so much trouble with Cananda and Ven? Flores, Denham, and Mendez are solid sure. But Isn't Denham not even NBA calibur and Mendez? Why are they schooling these guys?

Well the US should have got killed by Brazil, so I guess it all evens out. :lol

Canada beats them up - they banged them around quite a bit in the warmup games in Brazil too.

I don't know what happened today with Venezuela - I haven't talked to anyone who was there (or even watched it) yet. But Alex Scales is one of the USA's leading scorers and he didn't play today. That probably had something to do with it.

[FreshPrince22]

Does anyone know why guys like Ginobili, Delfino, Nocioni, Scola, etc aren't playing for the Argentina National team? Are they just saving them for the real tournament? I really have no idea how it works, I am just wondering if Carlos Delfino will be playing during the tournament? I know he left the Pistons summer league early to go there, but I haven't been able to find any other info.
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[Kori Ellis]

Does anyone know why guys like Ginobili, Delfino, Nocioni, Scola, etc aren't playing for the Argentina National team? Are they just saving them for the real tournament? I really have no idea how it works, I am just wondering if Carlos Delfino will be playing during the tournament? I know he left the Pistons summer league early to go there, but I haven't been able to find any other info.

Argentina is already qualified for the World Championships by virtue of winning the Olympics. So this tournament for them is for no reason. They have to play in it, but they don't count toward the four teams that advance. So they have no reason to risk sending their best players.

I don't think Delfino is on this team.

[FreshPrince22]

Argentina is already qualified for the World Championships by virtue of winning the Olympics. So this tournament for them is for no reason. They have to play in it, but they don't count toward the four teams that advance. So they have no reason to risk sending their best players.

I don't think Delfino is on this team.

ok, some pistons fans were worried Delfino didn't even make the team. :lol Any idea when the games are that their best players will be in? I am new to international bball, so all of these tourney's are confusing me.
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[Kori Ellis]

ok, some pistons fans were worried Delfino didn't even make the team. :lol Any idea when the games are that their best players will be in?

The actual World Championship is next summer in Japan in August and September. I don't know why Delfino would leave the summer league early if he's not even playing this summer :lol Maybe he just wanted a vacation.

The Argentineans on the board probably know -- maybe he was supposed to play, but then they didn't need him or something.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

The actual World Championship is next summer in Japan in August and September. I don't know why Delfino would leave the summer league early if he's not even playing this summer :lol Maybe he just wanted a vacation.

The Argentineans on the board probably know -- maybe he was supposed to play, but then they didn't need him or something.


Does anyone know why guys like Ginobili, Delfino, Nocioni, Scola, etc aren't playing for the Argentina National team? Are they just saving them for the real tournament? I really have no idea how it works, I am just wondering if Carlos Delfino will be playing during the tournament? I know he left the Pistons summer league early to go there, but I haven't been able to find any other info.

As far as the national team goes, the head coach decided to use this tournament to test new players since we are already qualified for the World Championships. There are only 2 players from the Gold Medal winning roster, Gabriel Fernandez and Leonardo Gutierrez, who are the ones that have their spot in the "A" team in a compromised situation. Most of the rest of the players are inexperienced in International basketball, but if they show their value against international competition they could earn a spot in the 2006 World Championship roster.

Since Argentina is already qualified as Olympic Champion, the rest of the teams now play for the remaining four FIBA Americas spots, with Brazil, USA and Canada as favourites to win the tournament or qualify.

That's why you don't see Ginobili, Delfino, Nocioni, Oberto, Scola, Sanchez, Herrmann, etc., they all were given a year off with the National Team. Which is OK, since they acheived a gold medal, and that gave us automatic qualification for the World Championship.

Delfino right now would be Ginobili's backup in the "A" team, but if he spends an entire season without playing significant minutes in the Pistons, he could lose that spot by the time the World Championship is hosted.

I hope I answered what you were asking.

[danyel]

I know he left the Pistons summer league early to go there, but I haven't been able to find any other info.

It was the other way around, he decided not to play for the NT in order to play in the summer league, and he did play there...

[FreshPrince22]

Thanks MMLH, that clears up a lot of things. The thing I'm wondering though is why Delfino would leave our Summer league early to go to the Qualifying Tournament practices, but not play in the actual games? Have you heard anything about how he did when he was there?
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[FreshPrince22]

It was the other way around, he decided not to play for the NT in order to play in the summer league, and he did play there...

He went to the first 3 Summer league games then left to go to Argentina for the tournament is what I heard. I know he wasn't at the last 2 summer league games for sure.
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[danyel]

He went to the first 3 Summer league games then left to go to Argentina for the tournament is what I heard. I know he wasn't at the last 2 summer league games for sure.

If he wasn't playing it was because of a shoulder injury maybe, he was never intended to be a part of the NT in this years schedule.

[mcornelio]

Go Dominican Republic!!! My Boy Felipe Lopez Is There!! AND FRANCISCO GARCIA

[Rick Von Braun]

I we don't qualify in the top 4 (excluding the already qualified Argentina), it would be a freaking disaster.

All the preparations for the next Olympics will suffer a big blow if we don't even qualify for the World Championship in Japan next year.

[WalterBenitez]

I we don't qualify in the top 4 (excluding the already qualified Argentina), it would be a freaking disaster.
All the preparations for the next Olympics will suffer a big blow if we don't even qualify for the World Championship in Japan next year.

Don't worry :tu
I read in a newspaper that FIBA has 4 wildcards in their pockets for 2006 WC in Japan :eyebrows ...
One for sure will go to USA Basketball :D
(Of course if NBA provides Stars :wow ).

[Kori Ellis]

I think this team will qualify anyway. They would have likely been 3-1 right now if Alex Scales (leading scorer) played yesterday. Hopefully his injury (bruised chest?) isn't that serious.

[boutons]

"bruised chest?"

that Canadian enforcer got him?

[Kori Ellis]

Canadian got killed by Brazil and knocked out of the tourney...

Canada trounced 105-81 by Brazil at FIBA Americas world qualifying tournament


SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (CP) - Leo Rautins' first major tournament as head coach of the Canadian national men's basketball team ended in disaster Sunday. Marcelo Machado scored a tournament-high 42 points as Brazil downed Canada 105-81 in the FIBA Americas world qualifying tournament, eliminating the Canadians from the competition. Canada (1-3) finished at the bottom of its five-team group, with the top four teams advancing to the quarter-finals.

The loss also means Canada will not play in next year's world basketball championships in Japan. It's the first time Canada has failed to qualify for the world championships since 1967.

"We got off to a rocky start against Venezuela, and that seemed to set the tone for the tournament," said forward Carl English. "We were stuck between a rock and a hard place in a must-win situation against Brazil. We played hard, but they were making their shots."

The Canadians, playing their fourth game in as many days, couldn't keep up with the high-octane Brazilians, who feature guard Leandro Barbosa of the Phoenix Suns and forward Tiago Splitter, who is expected to be a 2006 NBA lottery pick. Splitter scored 13 points and Barbosa added 12 as Brazil (3-1) clinched first place in Group A.

Rautins said his team simply couldn't match the veteran poise of their Brazilian counterparts.

"We played Brazil in a desperate situation, and our youth and inexperience showed," said Rautins, who took over the coaching reins from Jay Triano in February. "We came here to win, but we also came here with a young group of players, and the experiences they learned here will bode well for the future."

Canada hung tough in an entertaining first quarter, trailing 30-26 after 10 minutes. But Machado, a six-foot-seven shooting guard, torched the Canadians for 25 first-half points to help the Brazilians build a 53-39 lead at halftime.

The Canadians reduced the deficit to 71-63 on a Denham Brown three-pointer at the end of the third quarter, but they could get no closer. Machado made sure of that with a pair of three-pointers early in the fourth quarter that expanded Brazil's lead to 83-66.

The 30-year-old, who plays in the Brazilian national league, finished 10-of-18 from beyond the arc and added 11 rebounds, seven assists and three steals.

Rautins was quick to credit the Brazilians, who also beat Panama and Venezuela on their way to the top of the group standings.

"Brazil is a very good team with experience and poise," said Rautins. "That was the difference in the game."

Brown finished with 25 points, English added 19 and Juan Mendez and Levon Kendall had 13 apiece for the Canadians.

Despite the disappointing effort, English said the team remains upbeat.

"Overall, we have to get used to playing with each other," Coach Rautins is leading this team in the right direction. Now we just have to regroup and prepare for the Olympic qualifiers."

Elsewhere, Venezuela (3-1) earned a 71-70 win over Panama (1-3) to conclude round-robin action in Group A.

Mexico (1-2) played Puerto Rico (1-2) and the host Dominicans (3-0) entertained Argentina (2-1) in Group B action later Sunday.

[danyel]

Thats probably really good for the US. If results against the team you have already played to are carried to the 2nd stage.

[sol]

Argentina 84-Dominican Republic 60

[hendrix]

Thats probably really good for the US. If results against the team you have already played to are carried to the 2nd stage.

Exactly. Now at the second stage, the 8 teams start like this:

Argentina: 3-0 (Mexico is out, so the game doesnt count)
Brazil: 2-1
USA: 2-1
Venezuela: 2-1
Donimican: 2-1
Puerto Rico: 1-2
Uruguay: 0-3
Panama: 0-3

With the elimination of Canada, the 4 spot for next WC are pretty much clear.
The only doubt could be Puerto Rico.
Next stage is played in 4 days. All against all not previously met.

[WalterBenitez]

Exactly. Now at the second stage, the 8 teams start like this:

Argentina: 3-0 (Mexico is out, so the game doesnt count)
Brazil: 2-1
USA: 2-1
Venezuela: 2-1
Donimican: 2-1
Puerto Rico: 1-2
Uruguay: 0-3
Panama: 0-3

With the elimination of Canada, the 4 spot for next WC are pretty much clear.
The only doubt could be Puerto Rico.
Next stage is played in 4 days. All against all not previously met.

I hate this kind of tournament, prefer clear rules like Olympics, YOU WIN YOU continue ...WTF ...

[NZHayden]

nz is going to the world champs,didn't even need to qualify, and usa has to qualify? i dont understand

[velik_m]

what i don't understand if Argentina is prequalified, why are they playing in qualifying tournament?

[CubanMustGo]

Getting some PT for their bench players and figuring out a few things that could help them in the championship.

[velik_m]

nz is going to the world champs,didn't even need to qualify, and usa has to qualify? i dont understand

wasn't NZ 4th and USA 5th or 6th on last WC?

[velik_m]

ah yes...

2002 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL STANDINGS
1. Yugoslavia (7-2)
2. Argentina (8-1)
3. Germany (6-3)
4. New Zealand (4-5)
5. Spain (7-2)
6. USA (6-3)
7. Puerto Rico (6-3)
8. Brazil (4-4)

[orhe]

im sorry to the yugoslavian posters here e but damn! the last world championship finals game was stupid!

that damn ref didn't call the obvious foul!!! wtf!!!!! they messed up so bad it sucked... and manu was sprained too.

[WalterBenitez]

what i don't understand if Argentina is prequalified, why are they playing in qualifying tournament?

Two reasons I could find:

1st, this is an Official FIBA Torunament so ARG must play

2nd, even qualified it is useful to test new players

[NZHayden]

what i don't understand if Argentina is prequalified, why are they playing in qualifying tournament?

the final placings from this tournament will put them into the appropriate group for the world chapionships, e.g. 1st place will have the easier draw.
i just found that out, nz and oz had a qualifying tournament when we had both already qualified for the world champs

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

nz is going to the world champs,didn't even need to qualify, and usa has to qualify? i dont understand


what i don't understand if Argentina is prequalified, why are they playing in qualifying tournament?


the final placings from this tournament will put them into the appropriate group for the world chapionships, e.g. 1st place will have the easier draw.
i just found that out, nz and oz had a qualifying tournament when we had both already qualified for the world champs

The problem in Oceania is: Why play a qualifying tournament, when there are only two teams? The rest of the region is light-years behind Australia and New Zealand. Until the other nations best teams lose to Oz or NZ "C" team by 10 points, there's no reason to play that tournament.

Back to America, Argentina plays the tournament since it's the Americas' official tournament, the winner is awarded a trophy. Also, the final standings in this tournament have influence on the World Championships draw, but not for Argentina, they are seeded as Olympic Champion. Usually USA didn't care too much about the Americas tournament, since they were already qualified because they won the Olympics or the World Championships, the roster was composed of college and high school players.

[NZHayden]

an oceania qualifying tournament is needed though, nz qualified for this tournament through their 4th placing at the last worldchamps, thus leaving open the 1 and only oceania spot.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

an oceania qualifying tournament is needed though, nz qualified for this tournament through their 4th placing at the last worldchamps, thus leaving open the 1 and only oceania spot.

That's an Oceania rule, since the winner of the last World Championships qualified for the Olympics (Not the WC), and the runner-up, Argentina, had to qualify for the Olympics.

It's a strange rule, really, finishing 4th in a competition played four years ago, gives you qualification to the same competition. :huh

[NZHayden]

i agree, they should change the qualifying rules to the same as soccer so only the host nation and the defending champions need not qualify,

[whottt]

When does Team USA get to whip Argentina's ass?

[Kori Ellis]

They play tomorrow.

USA plays the Dominican Republic tonight.

[danyel]

i agree, they should change the qualifying rules to the same as soccer so only the host nation and the defending champions need not qualify,

FIFA changed that rule for the next WC. Now the defending champions needs to qualify too. Thats why Brazil is playing the qualifying tournament.

They changed it in order to make the defending champions get there as fit as posible (France the 1998 champion was knocked out in the first round in 2002).

[NZHayden]

ok cool thank for that danyel

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

When does Team USA get to whip Argentina's ass?

If you lose this time, it's gonna be even more embarrasing than before, our center looks like a sumo wrestler! :lol

[Dex]

So far in tonight's game, USA was down 10 after one quarter, but they've made a really strong push through the second to tie things at go up by two, 40-42 with 3 and a half left to play until half. :fro

[Dex]

USA now up 10 at halftime. :spin

Dominican Republic held to just 10 points in the second quarter! :wow

[Kori Ellis]

USA beat Dominican Republic 111-86.

[WalterBenitez]

i agree, they should change the qualifying rules to the same as soccer so only the host nation and the defending champions need not qualify,

Since 2006 WC Qualifying Tournament even the Champions has to qualify (BRA playing for its spot in South America).

I prefer the previous rule were the Champ used to have that privilege.

[WalterBenitez]

When does Team USA get to whip Argentina's ass?

T O D A Y :spin

[Dex]

What time does the US / Arg game start?

I just found the schedule which has it listed for 7:00 (19:00), but what time zone is that for? What's the difference for Central time?

[kolko]

What time does the US / Arg game start?

I just found the schedule which has it listed for 7:00 (19:00), but what time zone is that for? What's the difference for Central time?

6pm CT
7pm ET
8pm Argentina time

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

End of 1st. Quarter

USA 14
ARG 18

Both teams playing hard defense, Argentina looking to run, USA playing the 3 ball so far.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Half time:

USA 26
ARG 34

[kolko]

Final

USA 67 Argentina 84


:spin :spin :spin

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

When does Team USA get to whip Argentina's ass?

:rolleyes

:lmao

[NZHayden]

:lol

[manubili]

For the argies:

Since I don't have TYC Sports, I haven't been able to watch the games. :depressed

Which players did you like it the most? Is there anyone that you would like to see in the real NT? What abour Kammerich? Farabello?

Well, it would be nice to win a tournament we don't even need, with a B team.




:angel

Being an a spur and argentine nt fan is the easiest thing in the world. :elephant

[hendrix]

For the argies:

Since I don't have TYC Sports, I haven't been able to watch the games. :depressed

Which players did you like it the most? Is there anyone that you would like to see in the real NT? What abour Kammerich? Farabello?

Well, it would be nice to win a tournament we don't even need, with a B team.




:angel

Being an a spur and argentine nt fan is the easiest thing in the world. :elephant

And they are just playing the games they want to... :) 2 losses to 2 of the poorest teams of the 10 in this tournamente (Mexico and Panama) but when they decide to play, they play.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

For the argies:

Since I don't have TYC Sports, I haven't been able to watch the games. :depressed

Which players did you like it the most? Is there anyone that you would like to see in the real NT? What abour Kammerich? Farabello?

Well, it would be nice to win a tournament we don't even need, with a B team.




:angel

Being an a spur and argentine nt fan is the easiest thing in the world. :elephant

Our defence was huge in this game, USA was scoring an average of 90 points per game. We also fought hard on the boards, not only our bigs like Roman Gonzalez or Juan Gutierrez, it was a team effort boxing out (even 'tho USA grabbed 41 rbs. and we 36). The perimeter defense was great (limited USA to 21% 3pt. shooting) controlling Bell and Scales, and it was physical in the paint.

The offense was different according to the half, in the first, it was fastbreak when the defense made a steal, while in the second it was more oriented to three point shooting. Quinteros, Leo Gutierrez, Kammerichs, Juan Gutierrez, Porta, Farabello, they had good games.

Out of this team, Farabello may have a chance as third or even back-up point guard, depending on who else is called for that spot appart from Pepe Sanchez (maybe Prigioni). If Delfino spends another year without significant playing time in Detroit, either Quinteros or Jasen could be called for his spot. Juan Gutierrez and Kammerichs are good prospects for the future.

USA-ARG Boxscore:
http://www.fibaamericas.com/fnabox.asp?g=X&n=7&r=4645

[hendrix]

Out of this team, Farabello may have a chance as third or even back-up point guard, depending on who else is called for that spot appart from Pepe Sanchez (maybe Prigioni). If Delfino spends another year without significant playing time in Detroit, either Quinteros or Jasen could be called for his spot. Juan Gutierrez and Kammerichs are good prospects for the future.


Yes, we have good options to take the spots of Sconochini, Montecchia, and some cuts (I'm not sure Wolkowinsky will make it for next WC either).
Jasen, Gutierrez and Kammerichs are probably deserving a spot, and also some big man like Leiva could make it.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

hmm... Whottt, what do you say now?

[SuperManu!!!]

When does Team USA get to whip Argentina's ass?


OWNED!!!!!

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Yes, we have good options to take the spots of Sconochini, Montecchia, and some cuts (I'm not sure Wolkowinsky will make it for next WC either).
Jasen, Gutierrez and Kammerichs are probably deserving a spot, and also some big man like Leiva could make it.

I like Leiva's skills, but he lacks intensity and character. Román Gonzalez is less talented, but plays with a lot more of intensity. Also we should see how Matias Sandes do, he was the best player of the U-21 Squad. The good thing is that there are many options, and a year to see how they do with their clubs.

[timvp]

WTF, did Argentina just beat the US with their scrub lineup?

They need some steroid testing down there.

:)

[MaNuMaNiAc]

WTF, did Argentina just beat the US with their scrub lineup?

They need some steroid testing down there.

:)
LOL, its the mate I tell you! You guys should start drinking mate.

[Solid D]

http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2005/basketball/nba/08/31/bc.bkp.lgns.fibaqualifying.r/p1_felix-ap.jpg

Team USA's Noel Felix is surrounded by two
Argentines in the U.S.'s 84-67 loss Wednesday.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

LOL, its the mate I tell you! You guys should start drinking mate.

Lol, it's all in the mate, however a mate overdose could bring an unpleasant feeling!

[MaNuMaNiAc]

Lol, it's all in the mate, however a mate overdose could bring an unpleasant feeling!
http://spurstalk.com/forums/images/smilies/smilol.gif

[WalterBenitez]

WTF, did Argentina just beat the US with their scrub lineup?


:lmao

back to the issue USA Basketball must understand the basic rules ...1) Need time to develop a Team, 2) Need to Practice ... 3) Need FIBA's experience

This USA Team looks good, but need more time; besides that, this tournament is becoming Crazy

Panama is doing a good job, BRA (my previous candidate) has some trouble ... Venezuela looks really good.

[whottt]

Fuck FIBA

[smeagol]

Fuck FIBA
Classic :lol

[orhe]

haha man am i lucky or what! i can watch this tournament! (not live though) im watching argentina whoop USA right now

[manubili]

Argentina 78 - Venezuela 60

We are on the semi-finals.

[CaptainLate]

haha man am i lucky or what! i can watch this tournament! (not live though) im watching argentina whoop USA right now

Are Scola and Oberto playing?

[MaNuMaNiAc]

Fuck FIBA
http://spurstalk.com/forums/images/smilies/smilol.gif

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Are Scola and Oberto playing?

Look at post #78 in page 3 of the thread.


Argentina 78 - Venezuela 60

We are on the semi-finals.

Yes, we are. Venezuela is also qualified for the World Championships. Now the three remaining spots will be decided. Surely Brazil and USA will qualify too, and the other one remains open for three different teams.

[CaptainLate]

Look at post #78 in page 3 of the thread.

Thanks. Losing to Argentina w/o their main players doesn't look too good. :depressed

Will USA ever learn?

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Let's put things in perspective.

Results:

http://www.fibaamericas.com/ARG.jpg ARG 78
http://www.fibaamericas.com/VEN.jpg VEN 60
----------------------------------------------------------

http://www.fibaamericas.com/URU.jpg URU 77
http://www.fibaamericas.com/USA.jpg USA 91
----------------------------------------------------------

http://www.fibaamericas.com/PUR.jpg PUR 55
http://www.fibaamericas.com/PAN.jpg PAN 74
---------------------------------------------------------

http://www.fibaamericas.com/DOM.jpg DOM 72
http://www.fibaamericas.com/BRA.jpg BRA 80
---------------------------------------------------------

Standings:

1. Argentina (W 5 L 1)
2. USA (W 4 L 2)
=. Brazil (W 4 L 2)
=. Venezuela (W 4 L 2)
5. Panama (W 3 L 3)
6. Puerto Rico (W 2 L 4)
=. Dominican Republic (W 2 L 4)
8. Uruguay (W 0 L 6)

Green: Qualified for World Championships
Red: Eliminated

So, there's just one spot left, to be decided between Panama, Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, with just one gameday left.

Tomorrow games:

Panama vs. Uruguay
Brazil vs. Argentina :makemyday
USA vs. Puerto Rico
Venezuela vs. Dominican Republic

[milkyway21]

do you agree with this article?

http://www.sportsline.com/collegebasketball/story/8793858
[QUOTE]Blame for USA's struggles squarely with NBA
Sep. 1, 2005
By Gregg Doyel
CBS SportsLine.com Senior Writer

Don't blame college basketball. Tempting as it may be, don't blame high school or AAU ball, either.

We've all come to grips with the idea that USA Basketball is no longer an international superpower, but four news items from August suggest the problem is not what happens to U.S. players in high school or college. The problem is what comes later.


No offense to Kris Lang, but minor leaguers shouldn't be representing USA Basketball in major competitions. (AP)
The problem is the NBA. Can't say it any plainer than that. Here's the proof.

News item No. 1: Pacers sign Sarunas Jasikevicius to three-year deal.

What it means: Players get better overseas.

How we know: After two years of American high school (Solanco High in Quarryville, Pa.) and four years of American college (Maryland), Jasikevicius was so good that he went undrafted in the 1998 NBA Draft. He played in Lithuania, Slovenia, Spain and Israel, developing his game to the point where he torched the United States for 28 points in Lithuania's victory in the 2004 Olympics. Now 29, Jasikevicius was one of the more hotly pursued guards of this past offseason.

News item No. 2: Shammond Williams signs with Barcelona.

What it means: Players don't necessarily get better in the NBA.

How we know: When he played for North Carolina, Williams was superior to Jasikevicius. They played in the ACC from 1994-98, and Williams scored nearly 500 more points. He made second-team All-ACC (Jasikevicius didn't even make the third team), then was drafted early in the second round by Chicago. While Jasikevicius was making his bones in Europe, Williams was playing for six NBA teams in four years. To recap: Since 1998, Jasikevicius has progressed from a European player to an NBA player, while Williams has regressed from an NBA player to a European player.

News item No. 3: U.S. collegians go combined 19-1 overseas.

What it means: The older the players get, the worse USA Basketball gets. :rolleyes

How we know: In both worldwide events for college-age players this summer -- the World University Games in Turkey and the Under-21 championships in Argentina -- the United States had the best team. Meanwhile, the past two major U.S. teams featuring NBA players (at the 2002 World Championships and 2004 Olympics) went a combined 11-7, finishing sixth and third.

In August the Americans won the gold medal at the World University Games and should have won gold at the Under-21 event in Argentina. In Turkey, the United States went 8-0 with an average victory margin of 30 points. The Americans were nearly as dominant in Argentina (average score: 101-78), but got caught underestimating Canada in a 93-90 overtime loss. Although the Americans finished with an U-21 tournament-best 11-1 mark, including two wins against gold medalist Lithuania, the United States placed fifth because of its ill-timed loss to Canada.

News item No. 4: U.S. about to be eliminated from World Championships.

What it means: NBA veterans have zero interest in representing America.

How we know: The U.S. team that has lost three of its past four games at the World Championships qualifier this week in the Dominican Republic consists entirely of minor-league pros. Without any of the top 250 players from this country, the United States is close to elimination from a qualifying event.

To recap:

When they're in high school and college, U.S. basketball players are the best in the world. After U.S. players leave college, the world catches up.

It's a matter of economics and desire. A player making $800,000 in Spain will bust his tail to become a $10 million player in the NBA. A $10 million player in the NBA doesn't have to bust his tail.

And he's not about to bust anything for free. With NBA salaries blowing up after the 1992 Dream Team set what should have been the standard for USA Basketball, the average NBA star has become too rich, too coddled -- too cautious? -- to play for USA Basketball. Mike Bibby, Shaquille O'Neal, Jason Kidd, Kevin Garnett, Kenyon Martin, Richard Hamilton and Elton Brand cited injuries, security concerns or manicure appointments:D when they declined to play for the United States in 2004. Paul Revere, they ain't.

The illness of USA Basketball has other symptoms, too. The choice of Olympic coaches could be better. The people who choose the team could be smarter. Lots of issues need addressing, but consider this a starting point for the lords of USA Basketball, who happen to double as the lords of the NBA:

Don't waste your time looking at college and AAU ball. Look at your own damn game.


...i think he missed one thing. Kobe has promised to play in the World or olympics, he's just waiting for the call.

and U.S.A. has just earned a spot.

[Kori Ellis]

News item No. 4: U.S. about to be eliminated from World Championships.

What it means: NBA veterans have zero interest in representing America.

How we know: The U.S. team that has lost three of its past four games at the World Championships qualifier this week in the Dominican Republic consists entirely of minor-league pros. Without any of the top 250 players from this country, the United States is close to elimination from a qualifying event.

What the hell is he talking about? The USA clinched the berth in the World Championship by winning Thursday.

Also, does he not understand that the World Championship team will be made up of primarily NBA players -- this was just the team that was put together for the Qualifiers.

[milkyway21]

What the hell is he talking about? The USA clinched the berth in the World Championship by winning Thursday.

Also, does he not understand that the World Championship team will be made up of primarily NBA players -- this was just the team that was put together for the Qualifiers.

:tu

[boutons]

He chose a couple players, and made a case. Not enough data.

Too many other cases were great collegians don't make it in the NBA (they don't "get worse", they just weren't good enough for NBA), and plenty of US players go to Europe never to come back to NBA.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

What was this guy thinking when he wrote that?

[manubili]

Today:

Argentina 71 - Brasil 60 :elephant

EEUU 83 - Puerto Rico 85 :oops

[MaNuMaNiAc]

Interesting...

[orhe]

holy cow! what a sloppy start by both brazil and the united staes :))
turnovers all over

[kolko]

holy cow! what a sloppy start by both brazil and the united staes :))
turnovers all over

Brazil won 93-75.

[orhe]

hmm ok so who won gold

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

hmm ok so who won gold

Brazil is in the final, waiting for the winner of the Argentina vs. Venezuela game.

5:44 left in the first,
ARG 11
VEN 12

[JMarkJohns]

Are any here actually watching these games, or just following?

If you're watching, how's Barbosa doing? Namely with running an offense?

I've read and heard from some Suns fans that he's doing well, even running a pic-n-roll offense. He looks to create for himself first, but isn't a selfish PG.

Just lookin' for words from an unbiased group.

I love the kid. I think he's got All-Star potential, but he needs structure, something Phoenix didn't give him last year. I know his 20ppg, 4apg numbers for the Tourney, but as a statistician, I know that numbers don't tell you everything.

Thanks...

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Are any here actually watching these games, or just following?

If you're watching, how's Barbosa doing? Namely with running an offense?

I've read and heard from some Suns fans that he's doing well, even running a pic-n-roll offense. He looks to create for himself first, but isn't a selfish PG.

Just lookin' for words from an unbiased group.

I love the kid. I think he's got All-Star potential, but he needs structure, something Phoenix didn't give him last year. I know his 20ppg, 4apg numbers for the Tourney, but as a statistician, I know that numbers don't tell you everything.

Thanks...


Well, I saw three of Brazil's games, but he played only in two. He is one of the main weapons of Brazil's offense, specially since Anderson Varejao went down with an injury.

His role wasn't always a typical PG, sometimes he shared the court with another PG, and Leandrinho was used as a SG during that time. When playing as a PG, he distributed the ball well, 'tho he also shoot the ball a lot. His three point shooting has been good, but remember that under FIBA rules the 3-point line is closer (6,25mts.). He also tried penetrations, but with FIBA zonal defenses he didn't try that very often.

[JMarkJohns]

I don't mind percentages much and I understand the type of guard he is.

Sticking with the Suns, Kevin Johnson attacked the basket to create offense, most of the time for his own shot, but then used his own offensive agressiveness as a way to get teammates open shots. He did it off penetration and pic-n-roll.

While I'm not comparing the two, I think Barbosa is this type of guard. He failed last year because D'Antoni put him in positions to be Nash. He's not Nash and never will be.

I wish I could see more of Machado (the other PG). He seems like a flat-out stud. Splitter should use his past few games as a springboard to the #1 overall pick. He's so good.

Thanks for the info. Hoping that the confidense gained is enough to make Barbosa a significant part of the Suns this season.

[MaNuMaNiAc]

Argentina beat Venezuela. Finals is Brasil vs. Argentina

[orhe]

hmm it was a close game wasn't it?

[MaNuMaNiAc]

hmm it was a close game wasn't it?
not that close, but yeah, something like 104 - 93

[WalterBenitez]

ARG against BRA ... :eyebrows

I hope this time BRA plays seriously :makemyday

GO ARG GO!!! :D

[WalterBenitez]

VEN 93 USA 83, Not even a medal this time :oops
:depressed

[Dex]

Can't be to dissapointed for a thrown-together team of college and NBDL players going against some of the most well-versed national teams in the world. They qualified the US, and that's all that matters. They did their job.

[danyel]

Brasil is the champion

Brasil 100 - Argentina 88

Leandrinho killed us, he scored 20 pts in the 4th 7/8 on 3's.

Our team fought pretty hard, even without our starting PG.

[Kori Ellis]

Congrats to Brazil.

Props to the US players for repping the country and getting the USA qualified.

Props to Argentina for playing so well in this tourney when they didn't have to because they were already qualified.

[kolko]

MVP: Marcelinho

All-Tournament Team: Marcelinho, Leandrinho Barbosa, Francisco Garcia (Dominican Republic), Romero (Venezuela), Batista (Uruguay)

[danyel]

Batista also got an offer from the Hawks 2yrs 900.000

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Final Score:
Brazil 100
Argentina 88
:cuss :flipoff :pctoss

Well, Brazil has just won the tournament. It's never nice losing to them, but they played with most of their stars, except for a few, and we fielded our third string, and gave them a hell of a game. Maybe the reason we lost this game can be attributed on defense, since we were the best defensive team of the competition, but we allowed 100 points for the first time in the tournament.

Leandrinho was the key man, he scored four consecutive three-pointers in the 4th. quarter. Argentina missed Point Guard Daniel Farabello, who injured his back in the semi-final against Venezuela (another injury in semi-finals, what the...? Are we jinxed?).

A list of players that I liked in this competition:
Marcelinho - Guard (BRA)
Leandrinho - Guard (BRA)
Thiago Splitter - Forward (BRA)
Nicolas Mazzarino - Guard (URU)
Esteban Batista - Center(URU)
Elias Ayuso - Guard (Puerto Rico)
Oscar Torres - Guard (Venezuela)
Charlie Bell - Guard (USA)
Francisco García - Guard (DOM)
Daniel Farabello - Guard (ARG)
Paolo Quinteros - Guard (ARG)
Hernán Jasen - Guard/Forward (ARG)
Federico Kammerichs - Forward (ARG)
Leonardo Gutierrez - Forward (ARG)
Román Gonzalez - Center (ARG)

On other news, the Hawks have offered a contract to Uruguayan center Esteban Batista.
http://www.fibaamericas.com/noticiasread4.asp?r=ACHUWVNDBA&t=XGLQKBLQOI


SANTO DOMINGO (AP) - Los Atlanta Hawks de la NBA ofrecieron un contrato de dos años por 900 mil dólares al pívot uruguayo Esteban Batista, dijo el sábado uno de los agentes del jugador.

Batista devengaría 400 mil dólares en el primer año, que es garantizado, y podría recibir otros 500 mil por una segunda temporada.

"Batista está muy feliz porque tendrá la oportunidad de medirse a los mejores jugadores del mundo", dijo el dominicano Pedro Pérez, quien trabaja con el agente norteamericano Aaron Goodwin, nuevo apoderado de Batista.

La información del acuerdo le llegó a Batista el viernes, cuando celebró su cumpleaños número 22.

"Estaba muy emocionado por ese gran regalo", agregó Pérez.

El jueves, Batista había revelado a The Associated Press que Goodwin negociaba con Atlanta y Golden State.

"Atlanta hizo la mejor oferta, especialmente en lo que se refiere a oportunidades de jugar. Golden State solamente me invitó a su campamento de entrenamientos", dijo Batista.

Batista fue una de las estrellas del Campeonato FIBA Américas, en el que consiguió cifras dobles en rebotes y puntos en siete de los ocho partidos de Uruguay. También fue el líder de rebotes del torneo y uno de sus mejores anotadores.

It says they offered him a one-year deal for $400k, and $500k if there's a second year of contract. He said that the Hawks gave him the opportunity to play, while the Warriors only invited him to trainning camp.

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

Brazilian guard Marcelinho has been invited to the Cavaliers trainning camp, according to ESPN Brazil:

http://www.gazetaesportiva.net/ge_noticias/bin/noticia.php?chid=107&nwid=17629


Marcelinho é convidado a treinar em Cleveland

Santo Domingo (República Dominicana) - As apresentações do ala/armador Marcelinho na Copa América renderam ao jogador mais uma chance de tentar a sorte na NBA. Neste domingo, pouco antes do jogo da final do torneio, ele confirmou à ESPN Brasil, que foi convidado pelo Cleveland Cavaliers para participar de uma semana de treinos nos Estados Unidos.

O jogador deve seguir direto da República Dominicana para Cleveland, onde também atua seu companheiro de seleção Anderson Varejão. Apesar da oportunidade, Marcelinho não se precipita nos sonhos. “Não tem nada de mais. Já passei por uma situação como essa”, diz, lembrando do treinamento feito com o Portland Trail Blazers antes da temporada passada.

Para o jogador, que tem contrato com o Unitri/Uberlândia, uma transferência para a NBA depende de muitas coisas e não apenas de desejo. “Tem muita coisa que pesar, não é realizar o sonho a qualquer preço”, racionaliza. “Tem que ver o que eles me oferecem, o que eu tenho a oferecer e se eles vão me oferecer alguma coisa”.

He was invited to the Blazers trainning camp last season.

[JMarkJohns]

What's Machado's contract situation? I'm hoping that Barbosa can convince him to sign with the Suns as their backup PG.

Suns have a roster spot freed up thanks to Padgett. They have a need for backup PG and are only around 53 million in salary. it would need to be for the minimum, but that's what he'd be getting from others anyways.

[manubili]

Congrats Brazil, well played.

See you next time, with our A - team. :cuss

[JMarkJohns]

Brazil didn't exactly have their "A team" missing Nene, Verejao and Araujo. That's three NBA calibur big-men they missed.

Not saying their A-Team would beat Argentina's A-Team... Not by a long shot...

[Manu'sMagicalLeftHand]

What's Machado's contract situation? I'm hoping that Barbosa can convince him to sign with the Suns as their backup PG.

Suns have a roster spot freed up thanks to Padgett. They have a need for backup PG and are only around 53 million in salary. it would need to be for the minimum, but that's what he'd be getting from others anyways.

He is contracted to a Brazilian club, but if an NBA team makes him an offer, he would end that contract in minutes. He would sign as an unrestricted free agent, something like Oberto, Jasikevicius and Macijauskas.