2012 London Olympics

[rikhardur]

GBR – Temporary basketball arena gets all clear for construction in London

LONDON (2012 Olympics) - Organizers for the London 2012 Olympics have been given a thumbs-up to begin construction on an $83million temporary basketball arena.

The project, which will see a 12,000-seat capacity venue built on the Olympic Park site in east London, received planning permission on Wednesday.

The Preliminary Round and Quarter-Finals will be staged at the venue with the Semi-Finals and Finals moving to the O2 Arena.

"The arena will be one of the largest temporary venues built for any Games and will provide a great experience for spectators and athletes," basketball arena project sponsor Paul Snoddy said.

The handball Semi-Finals and Finals will also be staged in the temporary venue before it is scaled back to a 10,000-seat capacity for the Paralympic wheelchair basketball and wheelchair rugby.

Back in November, there were discussions about basketball being moved from the Olympic Park to the old Wembley Arena but a budget review determined that did not make financial sense.

The temporary structure that has been given approval will be located in the north of the Olympic Park in Stratford, London.

It was originally planned for the west of the park but was switched after other sports were moved to the ExCel venue in the Docklands.

It remains to be seen if the temporary arena will match the excellent setting offered by the Beijing Games for journalists and athletes.

In Beijing last summer, there was an athletes area and media area inside the Wukesong Arena where all of the basketball games were played.

In London, it may be that both are housed in building containers connected to the temporary arena.

View images of the basketball arena here (http://mm.gettyimages.com/mm/nicePath/locog?nav=pr122335409).
http://www.fiba.com/pages/eng/fc/news/lateNews/p/newsid/29674/arti.html

[rikhardur]

FIBA seeks 4 more men's teams at London Olympics

GENEVA – Basketball's global governing body has asked the International Olympic Committee to include four more teams at the 2012 London Games.

FIBA said Friday that having 16 instead of 12 countries would deliver bigger audiences and a more efficient tournament.

"The game has exploded and it's time to recognize that," FIBA secretary-general Patrick Baumann told The Associated Press. "The ratings will just skyrocket and it's going to be good for the IOC, good for us."

The men's tournament has had 12 teams since the 1976 Montreal Games but has grown in stature since NBA players were first allowed to play, at Barcelona in 1992.

Baumann said it was now second only to athletics in popularity with Olympic viewers.

"We have delivered our part of the bargain to the IOC and the Olympic Games," he said. "I think we can deliver even more if we had four more teams."

Baumann said basketball has the depth to justify an increased lineup.

The United States won at Beijing last year with a team that included LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, while nations such as Brazil, France, Italy and Serbia — who also feature NBA players — watched at home.

"There is a mismatch between the real value of the game around the globe, its universality, and the fact (these countries) can't come to the games," Baumann said. "Our world championship is for 24 countries and we could easily play with 32."

A 16-team tournament would also deliver cost savings to the IOC and future organizing committees, Baumann said.

Playing to a natural bracket, rather than in six-team groups, would cut two days from the current schedule, allowing games to be completed in 13 days.

Though Baumann is a member of the IOC, he will play no part in the decision. The IOC program commission will deliver a report to the 15-member executive board, which is scheduled to decide at its meeting in Berlin in August.

Other sports are seeking a bigger place at the Olympics, starting at London. Boxing wants to introduce women's medal events and swimming has asked for eight more races.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090522/ap_on_sp_ol/oly_bko_fiba_more_teams

[Dtown]

Seems logical and easy to spread out, it's really a matter of adding one qualifier to every region except Oceania. Also a 4 groups of 4 format would make the games before knockout stage mean more.

Host
World Champion
Europe 3 teams
Americas 3 teams
Asia 2 teams
Africa 2 teams
Oceania 1 team
Additional Qualifiers 3 teams

[Mindozas]

Seems logical and easy to spread out, it's really a matter of adding one qualifier to every region except Oceania. Also a 4 groups of 4 format would make the games before knockout stage mean more.

Host
World Champion
Europe 3 teams
Americas 3 teams
Asia 2 teams
Africa 2 teams
Oceania 1 team
Additional Qualifiers 3 teams

IMO there's no need for additional qualifiers, it just ruins teams' preparations and that's all. If there will be 16 teams, Europe should have atleast 5-6 guaranteed spots for sure, quality wise Europe is by far better than Asia, Africa or Oceania, in Americas there're only few teams those could match with Europe, so it'd be logical that Europe would take major part of places in Olympics. Last years additional qualifiers just proved it. Anyway later there might be some corrections, but I really doubt that smth might change till 2012(I mean quality-wise).

[Hobeze]

$83 million for a temporary arena thats insanity... are you saying its going to be knocked down after the Olympics?

I hope there are no terror attacks the facts its being held in london. I see Al Quaieda have beheaded another British Hostage in the Sarah desert today.. Its awful

[Lewis]

IMO there's no need for additional qualifiers, it just ruins teams' preparations and that's all. If there will be 16 teams, Europe should have atleast 5-6 guaranteed spots for sure,
why don't you make the torney a 16 european teams then. this is supposed to an international event not a new version of The Euro cup;).



in Americas there're only few teams those could match with Europe, s. Last years additional qualifiers just proved it. (I mean quality-wise).

The U.S
Canada
P.R
Argentina
Brazil
Uruguay
Venezuela
Mexico
Panama
The Dominican republic

those teams can beat any European team not named Spain, Greece, Russia, Serbia, Lithuania, or Turkey at any given time.

[Victorious]

The U.S
Canada
P.R
Argentina
Brazil
Uruguay
Venezuela
Mexico
Panama
The Dominican republic

those teams can beat any European team not named Spain, Greece, Russia, Serbia, Lithuania, or Turkey at any given time.


With exception to Argentina and the US, all the above European teams you metioned including Croatia, France, Slovenia, Italy, Germany are better than the rest of the American teams. Well, to be honnest, Brazil and Puerto Rico could also be there with some mid level to good European teams, but I am sure that the rest of the American teams can't be anywhere near the best European teams mentioned above. They are more on par with Israel, Poland, Bulgaria, Bosnia and the likes.

[Dtown]

While I believe that Europe is by far the best region in terms of of depth, I'd prefer they keep the system as is, and prove it on the court instead of just being handed 6 spots every olympic tournament.

[Mindozas]

why don't you make the torney a 16 european teams then. this is supposed to an international event not a new version of The Euro cup;)

Well, 5-6 teams out of 16 is really deserved quality wise and that's damn sure. 16? don't think so, if it'd be tournament of 32 teams, then maybe :)

According your second part of the post, Victorious said it all, I agree with him.

[TrueBluePinoy]

If the rumors that Asia and Oceania will be merged into one region are true, then 3 spots should be allocated for this zone. Asia 2 + Oceania 1 = 3.

[CKR13]

2012 London Olympics Basketball Arena (http://www.london2012.com/basketball-arena)

Sad that they will tear down the arena after the Olympics.

[cardenales]

I think the Olympics should add more teams to competition. Instead of 12 teams that we have at the moment. Should be 16 teams. Would be better.

The comparison of the american teams to europeans teams is very realistic. What I mean with this is that what Victorious says is very realistic.

[cardenales]

Now, the teams with a real opportunity to beat the Dream Team and win the gold medal is pretty sad.

I will say that only Spain and with the best talent is the only team capable to beat the Dream Team.

Serbia: That team is very good but still like two years away, the team is very talented but I dont think their players are ready to win the gold yet.

Lithuania: Very good team, with what I saw in Turkey at the World Cup last year still like two years away to have a real chance for gold as well Serbia.

Argentina: I dont think they are going to be in the podium in London. Great talent in this generation but the golden generation, age is taking their part in the frontcourt. Only Luis Scola is awesome, Fabricio Oberto is good, but I dont think he is going to be 100% Andres Nocioni and Hernan Jasen are excellent but the rest in the four and five position are not as good.

Brasil: Good talent, and they were the team that best play USA in Turkey. Now, this USA team is going to be better than the one of Turkey and the one that was in Beijin. Brasil is not going to have a chance with them.

Greece: Have to clasify first. good system and good players, but the team has slow down since Beijin 2008.

Puerto Rico: Great talent and should have a good coaching staff which was their achilles tandem in the past four years. Still, dont be surprise if we gave a good run for their money, a big scare to the Dream Team, remember, are game style is more close to their game and we have awesome guards. The medal is not there yet.

Dominican Republic: Should improve a lot with John Calipari as their head coach and Del Harris as their assistant. Still, not yeat for medal.

In conclusion: I just think that Spain with all their talent should be the team that should get to the Olympic final again vs. USA.

[Raze Lupin]

I think the Olympics should add more teams to competition. Instead of 12 teams that we have at the moment. Should be 16 teams. Would be better.

The comparison of the american teams to europeans teams is very realistic. What I mean with this is that what Victorious says is very realistic.

I agree! PR is strong they only lack coaching. We have good teams in the FIBA Americas. PR, USA, Canada, Brazil, Argentina. All should go to the Olympics!

[Raze Lupin]

Now, the teams with a real opportunity to beat the Dream Team and win the gold medal is pretty sad.


Please do not call team USA the Dream Team . They are not the Dream team. The Dream Team was 1992 with Jordan, Bird, Magic Johnson etc.... We no longer have a Dream Team. Thank you

[cardenales]

Common, next summer team USA should have Chris Paul, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard, that should be the starting five. From bench, Kevin Durant, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh etc, etc

You dont think that is not a Dream Team!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This team is better that all teams that play with NBA players in this past whole decade.

[Ciscorlie Horford]

Common, next summer team USA should have Chris Paul, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard, that should be the starting five. From bench, Kevin Durant, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh etc, etc

You dont think that is not a Dream Team!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This team is better that all teams that play with NBA players in this past whole decade.

We don't know if by then Kobe will still be physically in on piece. Judging from his showing in the playoffs it a [pears as it his knee have already given up on him. So most Likely Kobe will either come of the bench by then or not be on the team at all.

And mark my words, Chris Paul will be injured by them too. And Carmelo will not make final cut in my honest opinion.

In my opinion this is what is going to happen
Starting 5:
pg-Deron Williams
sg-Dwayne Wade
sf-Kevin Durant
pf-Lebron James
c-Dwight Howard

Bench:
Derrick Rose
Stephen Curry (will be there as the 3 pt. Specialist)
Russell Westbrook
Rudy Gay
Griffin
Love
LaMarcus Aldridge (by then Aldridge will have already been solidified as a super star thus leaving Bosh out of the team)

13th replacement player: Amare Stoudemire (at the end stoudemire will not make the final cut because of his defense, the team don't need any more offense and Coach K emphases on defense choosing LaaL over him.)

[Raze Lupin]

Common, next summer team USA should have Chris Paul, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwight Howard, that should be the starting five. From bench, Kevin Durant, Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh etc, etc

You dont think that is not a Dream Team!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This team is better that all teams that play with NBA players in this past whole decade.
No sir! That would be a very good team. It would still be far from "The Dream Team". Patrick Ewing, David Robinson, Charles Barkley, Larry Bird, Karl Malone, Scottie Pippen, Chris Mullin, Clyde Drexler, Micheal Jordan, Magic Johnson, John Stockton.

Because of those names and their accomplishments is why we don't call these new teams the dream team. These new teams are great BUT they are not legendary. They are no "Dream Team".

[CKR13]

We don't know if by then Kobe will still be physically in on piece. Judging from his showing in the playoffs it a [pears as it his knee have already given up on him. So most Likely Kobe will either come of the bench by then or not be on the team at all.

Yes, Bryant's sagging game on the post season was duly noted but Bryant's season this year has been better than his 2007-2008 season but by 2012, Bryant could no longer be the same player like in 2008. My verdict is Bryant to come off the bench.


And mark my words, Chris Paul will be injured by them too. And Carmelo will not make final cut in my honest opinion.

I will not discount the possibility of Paul choosing to rest for the off-season because of injuries and his impending free agency.

But at the moment, I would rather have Paul and Williams over Rose and Westbrook. Third stringer could be Curry due to his shooting.

Wade and Bosh are undecided at the moment to re-commit for 2012. Then I'd rather have Eric Gordon and Lamarcus Aldridge / Blake Griffin in tow.

[saalsapr]

With exception to Argentina and the US, all the above European teams you metioned including Croatia, France, Slovenia, Italy, Germany are better than the rest of the American teams. Well, to be honnest, Brazil and Puerto Rico could also be there with some mid level to good European teams, but I am sure that the rest of the American teams can't be anywhere near the best European teams mentioned above. They are more on par with Israel, Poland, Bulgaria, Bosnia and the likes.

Really?

So I guess that Turkey and Greece beating Puerto Rico by a combined 5 points (even though combined, they shot 32 more free throws than Puerto Rico in their games) makes them such dominant performances that Puerto Rico has no chance against them.

Also correct me if Im wrong, but I remember Brazil crushing Croatia, and losing to Slovenia by two or three points in the Worlds, but I guess they also have no chance to beat the strong european teams.

[Dtown]

Any predictions on the 7 teams that will qualify for the Olympics this year?

For me

Australia
Angola
Iran (unless Yao plays)
Spain
Lithuania
Brazil
Argentina

[Federoy]

Any predictions on the 7 teams that will qualify for the Olympics this year?

For me

Australia
Angola
Iran (unless Yao plays)
Spain
Lithuania
Brazil
Argentina

Good picks. Australia and Angola are academic, but there might be some movement in other places.

Automatic-- USA, Great Britain

Europe--Lithuania, Serbia

Asia--Iran

Americas--Brazil, Puerto Rico

Africa--Angola

Oceania--Australia

At-large--Turkey, Spain, Russia

[saalsapr]

Good picks. Australia and Angola are academic, but there might be some movement in other places.

Automatic-- USA, Great Britain

Europe--Lithuania, Serbia

Asia--Iran

Americas--Brazil, Puerto Rico

Africa--Angola

Oceania--Australia

At-large--Turkey, Spain, Russia

Wow its hard to pick against Argentina in their turf with a full team. Only way they lose is if age strikes them when they least expect it.

USA and Great Britain

Asia- Philippines (LMAO Laban Pilipinas!) No Imma go with China

Africa- Angola

Oceania-Australia

Americas- Argentina, Brazil

Europe- France, Serbia

Wildcard- Spain, Lithuania, Puerto Rico

[Ciscorlie Horford]

Automatic-- USA, Great Britain, Australia

Europe--France, Serbia

Asia--Korea

Americas--Argentina, Brazil

Africa-- Côte d'Ivoire

teams that will quialified At the qualifier--Dominican Republic, Spain, Slovenia



Wildcard- Spain, Lithuania, Puerto Rico

there is no wildcard


only one Australia now :p

[saalsapr]

Frace
Serbia

Argentina
China

Automatic-- USA, Great Britain, Australia

Europe--France, Serbia

Asia--Korea

Americas--Argentina, Brazil

Africa-- Côte d'Ivoire

Oceania--Australia

At-qualifier--Dominican Republic, Spain



there is no wildcard

Sorry, I know its not called wild cards as Puerto Rico participated in the last qualifiers at Greece. I just have a habit of calling them wild cards.

Also I would like to know how many Australia's there are in the world.:D

[Dtown]

For the additional qualifiers next year I have

Serbia, Turkey, France (Puerto Rico being the darkhorse for an upset.)

[Federoy]

Wow its hard to pick against Argentina in their turf with a full team. Only way they lose is if age strikes them when they least expect it.

USA and Great Britain

Asia- Philippines (LMAO Laban Pilipinas!) No Imma go with China

Africa- Angola

Oceania-Australia

Americas- Argentina, Brazil

Europe- France, Serbia

Wildcard- Spain, Lithuania, Puerto Rico

Yeah, age is exactly why I'm betting against them. The Argentines are still a powerful force in the Americas, but their core players (Ginobilli, Nocioni, Scola, and Prigioni) are getting a little long in the tooth, so it's important that CABB start infusing the NT with youngblood now or this team is going to have a hard time getting past Puerto Rico or Brazil for a trip to London next year. My prediction is that either Brazil or PR is going to shock them in the tournament semi-finals and they're going to be on the outside looking in.

Even if they fail, they can still make the tournament if they get a favorable draw in '12 Wildcard Tournament, but that's still a difficult road. They would be going up against good European squads most likely on European soil.

[saalsapr]

Yeah, age is exactly why I'm betting against them. The Argentines are still a powerful force in the Americas, but their core players (Ginobilli, Nocioni, Scola, and Prigioni) are getting a little long in the tooth, so it's important that CABB start infusing the NT with youngblood now or this team is going to have a hard time getting past Puerto Rico or Brazil for a trip to London next year. My prediction is that either Brazil or PR is going to shock them in the tournament semi-finals and they're going to be on the outside looking in.

Even if they fail, they can still make the tournament if they get a favorable draw in '12 Wildcard Tournament, but that's still a difficult road. They would be going up against good European squads most likely on European soil.

I agree, in fact Im hoping both Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic upset the south americans and qualify.

Way I see it, Brazil is the south american D.R. with their three(now 4) NBA players. Id personally take Horford over Varejao and Splitter any day of the week. At this stage of his career we will have to see how Barbosa performs, and Nene for me is the x factor no DR could contain. When they do play, I hope Villanueva plays team basketball and stops shooting bricks.

Flores, Villanueva, Horford

vs

Barbosa, Varejao, Nene

Main matchups right here, and DR has got to be careful against Machado and Splitter too. They could do it with the right game plan.

Argentina on the other hands fits more as the south american Puerto Rico. Reason Im not counting Argentina out (besides the obvious) is because even if they are an old team, I dont think in this tournament most teams have what it takes to, how we say in Puerto Rico, make Argentina "sudar la gota gorda", make them exhaust themselves for wins.

Barea, Vassallo, Peavy

vs

Ginobili, Delfino, Scola

Puerto Rico has also got to be careful of a possible lineup of Ginobili, Delfino, Nocioni, Scola, Oberto. Thats a big lineup to have someone like Barea on court. Good thing they are not as athletic as Miami's lineup of Wade, Miller, Lebron, Haslem, Bosh.:D

[Mindozas]

I agree, in fact Im hoping both Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic upset the south americans and qualify.

Way I see it, Brazil is the south american D.R. with their three(now 4) NBA players. Id personally take Horford over Varejao and Splitter any day of the week. At this stage of his career we will have to see how Barbosa performs, and Nene for me is the x factor no DR could contain. When they do play, I hope Villanueva plays team basketball and stops shooting bricks.

Flores, Villanueva, Horford

vs

Barbosa, Varejao, Nene

Main matchups right here, and DR has got to be careful against Machado and Splitter too. They could do it with the right game plan.


Correct me if I'm wrong, but as far as I remember, Barbosa and Varejao won't play in NT this summer, right :confused: That would make Brazilian chances way more complicated and I suppose they might need next year's qualifiers to get into Olympics.

My predictions would be:

Europe: Spain is a lock I suppose, then hard to tell, let's say France, maybe they finally will show smth on international stage.

Americas: Argentina is a lock, then would pick Brazil, but with their missings, I'd say Puerto-Rico

Africa: no brainer - Angola

Asia: Iran

Oceania: Australia

Teams goin' to Additional qualifiers:

Europe: Lithuania, Serbia, Greece, Russia
Americas: Brazil, Dominican Rep., Canada
Africa: Nigeria, Ivory Coast
Asia: China, Lebanon
Oceania: New Zealand

[Ciscorlie Horford]

I agree, in fact Im hoping both Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic upset the south americans and qualify.

Way I see it, Brazil is the south american D.R. with their three(now 4) NBA players. Id personally take Horford over Varejao and Splitter any day of the week. if you didn't you were a fool. There is a reason why Splitter is a benchwarmer, Varejao is the Starting center of teh worst team in the nba and Horford was an all star, a all NBA 3rd team and had the best PER for a center other than Howard and Andrew Bynum (but he only played for half the season anyway)



At this stage of his career we will have to see how Barbosa performs, and Nene for me is the x factor no DR could contain. When they do play, I hope Villanueva plays team basketball and stops shooting bricks.
You must have forgot, the finals centrobasket, when Villanueva could not miss a thing and out-shot the whole PR team even though he was injured and could not even move one of his legs, and no one in the entire PR team could guard him, He butt-raped and impregnated Ricky Sanchez, Renaldo Balkman and Nathan Peavy 8;), he was basically winning the whole game by himself, too bad at the end he didn't have any help from his teammates other than Fortuna



Flores, Villanueva, Horford

vs

Barbosa, Varejao, Nene

Main matchups right here, and DR has got to be careful against Machado and Splitter too. They could do it with the right game plan.
Varejao is not going to be there which is fine because they still have Splitter and Nene, IMO they are both better than Anderson "la maquina de flopeo:p" Varejao

Flores is not going to be in the starting lineup so that Barbosa vs Flores matchup is not going to happen, Also, I heard that Barbosa had surgery this summer so he might not play. he is going to be our sixth man. We are trying to get Sammy Mejia, he was the French league MVP this year. but his wife is expecting a baby this summer, so he might not play, in that case James Feildeine would most likely be the starting 2, or even Kelvin Pena (if he make the team, but it is not likely to happen if everybody plays anyway)

therefore, the match-ups will:

Flores vs Alex, Huertas vs Garcia, Machado vs Mejia/or Feldeine, Splitter vs Villanueva, Nene vs Horford
Brazil has obvious advantages with Alex and Splitter, I think Huertas won't be able to stay in rhythm with a Garcia's height in front of him, and if Mejia comes, then Machado will have nightmares all year long with Mejia, if Mejia does not come then Machado will eat Feldeine alive for dessert.

Overall Brazil will win this game I don't not expect the DR to win, Brazil bench is much more stronger. I lot of people are making to much deal about Barbosa and Varejao absences. Varejao is more of an obstacle than anything else with Splitter and Nene, on the roster, and Barejao.

I also think, Brazil will be too much for Puerto Rico. 2 years ago or so Brazil and Puerto Rico were at the same level, but not now, Brazil has a new generation coming that will be the subject of much talk in the upcoming years but in Puerto Rico is going in the other direction, they don't give opportunities to the new young talent, so they go to waste and end up playing in bad leagues like in Mexico, Venezuela, third rated regional leagues in the RD and third world countries in Europe because they can't even get playing time in their own professional league in Puerto Rico. Remember this Puerto Rican team with all their best players abailable lost to the weakest team in the World Championship and was embarrassed by Trinidad & Tobago, and had trouble with a team like Belice in the first half of their match up in CentroBasket while Brazil was the only team in the World Championship talented enough to beat USA, they actually almost did but the refs gave the game to the Americans with a bunch of phantom calls. and they were the only team in the world that came even remotely close to doing that, the European super powers could not do it, they were all blown out by 20-30 points Brazil lost by 1 I think at the last second with the ball on their hands. I think Brazil is much a bigger threat than Argentina I don't care he they have home core advantage, have you been to Argentina anyway? their crowd isn't even loud all they do is chat football soccer songs all game long and start jumping around with local club banners and stuff, that is not a hostile environment for a professional basketball player that is a party on the honor. I can not wait to see a 60 years old semi-retierd Fabricio Oberto who has not played basketball for like 2 years try to defend Nene:D

[cardenales]

Ciscolie Horford, I think you are underestimate the puertorican team.

We won tournaments and clasify to the World Cup with talent and a very bad coach in Manolo Cintron. Now, we have Flor Melendez who is way better than Manolo.

Is true that Puerto Rico dont give much chances to their youngster. I agree with you, but Flor, does like to give chances to youngsters, so expect young people playing in are team. Even more, Flor already say that we are going to have to teams this summer. One and the best one for Mar de Plata and the second one with is going to be made with college players goes to Guadalajara for the Pan Am Games. So that is a good sign, that Flor wants to give a chance to the youngsters.

Brasil: Is a good team, What they have won lately? Yes I know, the last three versions of the Pan Am Games. This tournament is devaluate, teams are not going with their best weapons anymore. Ok, they got talent, but since 2007 Puerto Rico and Brasil are even with a (3-3) and Brazil with better coaching than us. Bottom line and not to sure about Brasil. Not even about Argentina, is true is the golden generation but age is showing up in that team. The only thing is that I think that the whistle in the tournament it might give them a hand.

By the way, Who is the 4th dominican in the NBA?

[cardenales]

About our players playing in bad leagues in the continent, you are right, but:

Dennis Clemente and David Huertas play Division I in the very strong Greek league.

Angel Vasallo play for a little while in div. I in France and he did well, he is going to be back in division I in some european competitive league.

Andres Rodriguez (not that young) and Angel Luis Garcia. They play in Spain in Leb Oro, you r right is not division I but is a very though league and they did well. The league can be stronger that any league of America's except the NBA.

Guillermo Diaz, doing well in Italy Lega division I.

Kevin Hamilton, Richard Chaney and Nathan Peavey, doing great in Germany's division I.

and list goes on...

Next years to come there going to be more puertoricans playing in the NBA and Europe. I know same with dominicans.




















;\

[cardenales]

Expect Alex Galindo, Johwen Villegas and Ricky Sanchez playing in Europe this year.

[cardenales]

I mean playing in Europe next year.

[saalsapr]

if you didn't you were a fool. There is a reason why Splitter is a benchwarmer, Varejao is the Starting center of teh worst team in the nba and Horford was an all star, a all NBA 3rd team and had the best PER for a center other than Howard and Andrew Bynum (but he only played for half the season anyway)

Man even Jamaal Magloire was an allstar, that dont make him one of the best in the NBA. The main reason I consider Horfor a better player was because he is a better offensive option than the flopper.


You must have forgot, the finals centrobasket, when Villanueva could not miss a thing and out-shot the whole PR team even though he was injured and could not even move one of his legs, and no one in the entire PR team could guard him, He butt-raped and impregnated Ricky Sanchez, Renaldo Balkman and Nathan Peavy 8;), he was basically winning the whole game by himself, too bad at the end he didn't have any help from his teammates other than Fortuna

Villanueva was very Lebronesque jacking up shots in the fourth quarter. If it wasnt for him, Puerto Rico might have lost the game. Thats why I thought he was the MVP that Final game. And he isnt much better in the NBA either.


Varejao is not going to be there which is fine because they still have Splitter and Nene, IMO they are both better than Anderson "la maquina de flopeo:p" Varejao

Oh well a more winnable game for DR.


Flores is not going to be in the starting lineup so that Barbosa vs Flores matchup is not going to happen, Also, I heard that Barbosa had surgery this summer so he might not play. he is going to be our sixth man. We are trying to get Sammy Mejia, he was the French league MVP this year. but his wife is expecting a baby this summer, so he might not play, in that case James Feildeine would most likely be the starting 2, or even Kelvin Pena (if he make the team, but it is not likely to happen if everybody plays anyway)

therefore, the match-ups will:

Flores vs Alex, Huertas vs Garcia, Machado vs Mejia/or Feldeine, Splitter vs Villanueva, Nene vs Horford
Brazil has obvious advantages with Alex and Splitter, I think Huertas won't be able to stay in rhythm with a Garcia's height in front of him, and if Mejia comes, then Machado will have nightmares all year long with Mejia, if Mejia does not come then Machado will eat Feldeine alive for dessert.

Overall Brazil will win this game I don't not expect the DR to win, Brazil bench is much more stronger. I lot of people are making to much deal about Barbosa and Varejao absences. Varejao is more of an obstacle than anything else with Splitter and Nene, on the roster, and Barejao.

Vareajao might not be much on the offensive, but he gave Brazil much depth on defense for his flops and slaps. I still expect Brazil to win the game also.


I also think, Brazil will be too much for Puerto Rico. 2 years ago or so Brazil and Puerto Rico were at the same level, but not now, Brazil has a new generation coming that will be the subject of much talk in the upcoming years but in Puerto Rico is going in the other direction, they don't give opportunities to the new young talent, so they go to waste and end up playing in bad leagues like in Mexico, Venezuela, third rated regional leagues in the RD and third world countries in Europe because they can't even get playing time in their own professional league in Puerto Rico. Remember this Puerto Rican team with all their best players abailable lost to the weakest team in the World Championship and was embarrassed by Trinidad & Tobago, and had trouble with a team like Belice in the first half of their match up in CentroBasket while Brazil was the only team in the World Championship talented enough to beat USA, they actually almost did but the refs gave the game to the Americans with a bunch of phantom calls. and they were the only team in the world that came even remotely close to doing that, the European super powers could not do it, they were all blown out by 20-30 points Brazil lost by 1 I think at the last second with the ball on their hands. I think Brazil is much a bigger threat than Argentina I don't care he they have home core advantage, have you been to Argentina anyway? their crowd isn't even loud all they do is chat football soccer songs all game long and start jumping around with local club banners and stuff, that is not a hostile environment for a professional basketball player that is a party on the honor. I can not wait to see a 60 years old semi-retierd Fabricio Oberto who has not played basketball for like 2 years try to defend Nene:D

I dont know if you remember but that game against T&T was like a scrimmage for Puerto Rico, alot of guys with contracts in PR while a bunch of nobodies from T&T. Because of the slippery floors PR decided to not play. Argentina, Serbia and Puerto Rico could have done the same to the americans that day. Also you are nuts to think the Brazil that faced USA was good/great. In fact the roster wasnt much different from the one in Fiba Americas. Only diffrence was that against Puerto Rico, Varejao played, while against the USA Varejao was injured. Besides, Argentina without Ginobili and Nocioni showed Brazil why they where still kings of South America in that tournament. Puerto Rico has just made a program to develop the young talent this year, so we are getting better at that, while we now have around 40 NCAA players. Check that, our 2003 u19 roster featured Barea and Ramos, and finished sixth at the worlds. Our 2009 lineup that also finished sixth at the worlds, featured Rosario and Young Morales. If Im right, Brazil will particpipate in just their second Fiba World u19 championship this year, so either their development program must have been worse than Argentina and Puerto Rico, or they have just lacked the talent this decade.

[saalsapr]

Also Horford, if you think for some reason that the

Reyes
Villafañe
Dalmau

Trio that participated in the Fiba Americas 2009 in the same team that beat Brazil by 4 and later lost by 1 was somehow better than the

Balkman
Peavy
Barea

trio in the Worlds, then you should stick to watching baseball. Puerto Rico is getting more talented by the competition. Wether you want to see it or not is up to you.

[cardenales]

Are you serious that Puerto Rico was with their best player available whe we lost to T&T? Berdiel, Cortez and Life are good players but they are not of the main players to be in the national team. Luis Villafañe? Are you kidding me, that Puerto Rico was with their best players in Centrobasket!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I dont take credit away of T&T, but you also has to see Manolo, doing his stupid stuff. In that game, he puts James Life a 6"4" shooting guard to play PF. Only Cintron does that. Cintron make many mistakes in that tournament and we paid the price. With Flor Melendez the team is going to be a lot better coach.

Puerto Rico should have a way better team for this America Tournament. Imagine how good that a player like Guillermo Diaz is not sure in the national team.

[cardenales]

mmmmmm, one more thing, is true that Charlie Villanueva almost beat us by hisself in that Centrobasket. Now, with Manolo Cintron, Puerto Rico was very bad in defense, even we did well in that departement in Turkey. Expect now a lot better perform in defense because Flor like his teams to play good defense. We are going to see a lot of improve in that. We already see it in Turkey, its going to be a lot better this year in Argentina.

[rocketstar47]

Philippines will be the new Champion from ASIA

[cardenales]

I will love to see the Phillipines winning the Fiba Asia tournament. Now, for that to happen, the phillipines need to change their philosophy of game.

[saalsapr]

I will love to see the Phillipines winning the Fiba Asia tournament. Now, for that to happen, the phillipines need to change their philosophy of game.

I agree, if I where the director of Phillipines basketball, I would hire Freddie Roach to coach Team Pilipinas and put one guy to give hard fouls to each team's best players.

That way the Philippines would have a great chance of victory.

[inaminute23]

This is going to really annoy a lot of people now, but the Men’s tournament is virtually sold out!! I’m gutted I only got tickets for one evening session, and still it is not guaranteed it will be GB



http://media.ticketmaster.com/en-gb/img/sys/tournament/london2012/oly-basketball-a.pdf

[Red 7]

I applied for all the Mens quarterfinal and semifinal games and got the royal two finger signal ....

[Dtown]

On the one hand I'm happy to see basketball's still one of the top draws. On the other I wonder how many people that got tickets are actual fans as opposed to tickets reserved for sponsors.

[Ciscorlie Horford]

On the one hand I'm happy to see basketball's still one of the top draws. On the other I wonder how many people that got tickets are actual fans as opposed to tickets reserved for sponsors.

if you notice that they will take down the newly-built stat of the art basketball arena that the Brits construct for teh olympics, after the games. I would say that none are really fans, but are going to the games just for the novelty of it.

[DelijaZauvjek]

Teodosic MVP in finals against USA ;)

[Raze Lupin]

if you notice that they will take down the newly-built stat of the art basketball arena that the Brits construct for teh olympics, after the games. I would say that none are really fans, but are going to the games just for the novelty of it.


On the one hand I'm happy to see basketball's still one of the top draws. On the other I wonder how many people that got tickets are actual fans as opposed to tickets reserved for sponsors.

We Americans travel well for the olympics. The soccer world cup last summer had well over 100,000 airline tickets purchased from the USA to South Africa. My uncle was able to secure tickets for 2012 Olympic games. Still I'm with you guys many true basketball fans will not be able to see this tourney because the novelty fans ate up all the tickets. I'm glad basketball is such a big draw. I'm pissed that EU member countries got a bit of an edge on ticket availability. I'll be there but there is no garauntee I will get to see team USA play. I think the ticket situation was poorly handled.

[CKR13]

FIBA's The Road to London Site (http://london2012.fiba.com/pages/eng/fe/12/olym/p/index.html)

Check it out.

[Dtown]

Well done site with a nice layout, really like how simple they explain who qualifies.

[Jeffie]

I hope more teams would be invited out of Asia.. Historically, it is dominated by China.. I think people want to see more opportunities given to other countries, and I hope the additional 4 teams would mean good news for Asia hopefuls who can't get past China.

Playing in the 2012 Olympics should be the Philippine team's main goal, if this is not already their main goal! Playing against a USA team donned by NBA Players would be a life-changing experience for whoever plays and works for that Philippine team - and may change the perspective of the National team after the Olympic experience to hopefully come back stronger, and perform better in at least the Asian Games.

[Alvertis4]

I got tickets for the Olympics but forgot to put money in my credit card account :rolleyes: They didn't tell me what tickets they were before my payment was done so not sure if I'd get any basketball tickets (I had applied for 3 games on 1 particular day, 1 qf and 1 sf)

[Ciscorlie Horford]

I hope more teams would be invited out of Asia.. Historically, it is dominated by China.. I think people want to see more opportunities given to other countries, and I hope the additional 4 teams would mean good news for Asia hopefuls who can't get past China.

Playing in the 2012 Olympics should be the Philippine team's main goal, if this is not already their main goal! Playing against a USA team donned by NBA Players would be a life-changing experience for whoever plays and works for that Philippine team - and may change the perspective of the National team after the Olympic experience to hopefully come back stronger, and perform better in at least the Asian Games.

that's what the qualifier is for. You can not just give away free spot to other team just because. if you want more Asian teams in the Olympics then I suppose those Asian teams that could not qualify through the FIBA Asia championship, need to do a better job on the Olympic Qualifier.


but I think that any team that can not beat China can't be on The Olympics. This is not the World Championship. This is for the best of the best including more teams would just cheapen this event.

[Jeffie]

that's what the qualifier is for. You can not just give away free spot to other team just because. if you want more Asian teams in the Olympics then I suppose those Asian teams that could not qualify through the FIBA Asia championship, need to do a better job on the Olympic Qualifier.


but I think that any team that can not beat China can't be on The Olympics. This is not the World Championship. This is for the best of the best including more teams would just cheapen this event.

Ok, when I said "invited", I didn't mean to give it away, my fault and should've been clearer.. I meant, to invite Asia to more spots than the usual 1-2.. There were 4 more spots for 2012, so I was hoping more spots will be granted for Asia to qualify for.

[Dtown]

Ok, when I said "invited", I didn't mean to give it away, my fault and should've been clearer.. I meant, to invite Asia to more spots than the usual 1-2.. There were 4 more spots for 2012, so I was hoping more spots will be granted for Asia to qualify for.

FIBA wanted four more spots for the Olympics but the IOC shot them down. So there are still only 12 teams that will be competing. Only way in from Asia is win Gold or make it through the additional qualifying tournament.

[cardenales]

Jeffie, I have a question for you

Do you know if Marcus Eugene Douhit and Greg Slaughter are going to be with RP in the Asian qualifiy to London?

The Philipines need this two guys bad, need the height, to compete in this tournament, plus you already have Japeth Aguilar and Jason Ballesteros, will help, but need more height for the team.

[cardenales]

By the way, Jeffie, are there other phillipines players over 6"7" that the four I mention before that could make the national team for the Asians?

[Jeffie]

Jeffie, I have a question for you

Do you know if Marcus Eugene Douhit and Greg Slaughter are going to be with RP in the Asian qualifiy to London?

The Philipines need this two guys bad, need the height, to compete in this tournament, plus you already have Japeth Aguilar and Jason Ballesteros, will help, but need more height for the team.

Hi bro -

Marcus Douthit is a naturalized Filipino that we need badly in the National Team. He cannot play for commercial teams in the local pro league (PBA) due to him being naturalized instead of having trace of a Filipino blood, and the PBA only accepts imports with 6'6" height and below (stupidest thing I've ever heard).

Greg Slaughter will play for a college team in the Philippine version of the NCAA (called U.A.A.P. - Universities Athletic Association of the Philippines), but will play for the National Team after the tournament.


By the way, Jeffie, are there other phillipines players over 6"7" that the four I mention before that could make the national team for the Asians?


We have a lot of guys taller than 6'7", which can immediately help the National Team (The first one I want in the National Team would be Mark Pingris, a great double-double guy for his average 6'6"-6'7" height, look him up)..

http://www.purefoodsbasketball.com/wp-content/gallery/derby-ace-vs-rain-or-shine-elims/marc-pingris.jpg

but we can no longer go down the road of forming a National Team with a core group of guys from the PBA a few months or 1 year before the tournament the NT will participate it.. That was how we handled all Asian Games & FIBA Asia Qualifying tournaments, and it used to work (Silver Medalist in 1990 Asian Games) until 1994, when the Philippines finished 4th Place against Japan. That was the start of the downfall. :mad:

The current National Team called Smart-Gilas is comprised of college players, naturalized or Fil-foreign recruits and the greatest player to NEVER PLAY for a commercial team in the PBA, Chris Tiu (look him up as well), who is so intelligent (academic scholar in college) he opted to run a business instead of making basketball a living - and only plays basketball for Flag and Country.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3212/2696600729_a85b699773.jpg

Sometimes, depending on the tournament, Smart-Gilas is reinforced by PBA players (Asi Taulava, Kelly Williams) that are loaned to the Philippine Team pending approval by their commercial ballclubs (I can't believe you first have to approve loaning a player to a National Team - I thought it was a no-brainer), but they are not the spectacular players they once were - and they were spectacular against mostly Filipino competition. :rolleyes:

[Jeffie]

In his prime, though, Asi Taulava would've made it extremely hard for other teams.. He's a 6'9"/6'10" PF/C who is widely-considered as the big man whose play was the most well-suited for Filipinos to succeed in International Competition - not some 6'5" Center or 6'3" Power Forward in the 90's (Ugh! Height, height, height!)

http://www.pinoysport.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/asitaulava.jpg

Right now, he's still playing for Smart-Gilas, but no longer the "Main Attraction" in our National Team.. He can still play solid interior defense and clear the boards, but is a few steps slower.

Here's a video of him scoring against Yao Ming in international play: http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=2&ved=0CCoQtwIwAQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DU9k izGpBRqU&ei=RDEOTpC0A4XksQON7omHDg&usg=AFQjCNG2TN2j0jKWVMIspz-baRouX9BK_w

[cardenales]

I know about Asi Taulava, he is a very big guy with good move on the post but old. He is almost 40!!!!! and still in the national team. RP needs new blood desperate.

Still, finally, did not answer my question, does the two 6"11" can play for RP in this Asia tournament 2011?

Mike Pingris, need to be in the national team. I mean, height is needed badly for todays basketball.

Good Luck, in this years Asians.

[Jeffie]

I know about Asi Taulava, he is a very big guy with good move on the post but old. He is almost 40!!!!! and still in the national team. RP needs new blood desperate.

Still, finally, did not answer my question, does the two 6"11" can play for RP in this Asia tournament 2011?

Mike Pingris, need to be in the national team. I mean, height is needed badly for todays basketball.

Good Luck, in this years Asians.

Marcus Douthit will definitely play.. Greg Slaughter is questionable, since he will play for his collegiate team in the 2011 UAAP Men's Basketball tournament. I don't think he can make it in time, but he will definitely play AFTER the UAAP tournament.

[cardenales]

The Federation should put him on the team and forget about the college tournament. Common, the Asians are more important!!!!!!!!! Is more important to see RP in the Olympics than who ever gets champion in the college championship. Where are the priorities of the people in charge of Basketball in the Phillipines!!!!!!!!!!

[cardenales]

Imagine RP with this team:

Cyro Bagio
Gabe Norwood 6"5"
Kerry Williams 6"5"
Jason Ballesteros 6"7"
Greg Slaughter 6"11"
Marcus Eugene Douhit 6"11"
Bring back Jimmy Alapga!!!!!!!!!! hehehehe

Please, the PBL should change that ridiculous rule that no foreign player taller than 6"6" can't play in the profesional league.

[durden_tyler]

ON ASSUMPTION that the NBA lockout drags on for a year, how do you think will this affect the preparation then composition of Team USA?

[CKR13]

On that scenario, I expect the USA Basketball Board of Directors to open negotiations with NBA Commissioner Stern, NBA Board of Directors and the team owners to secure the necessary clearance for the intended players from the National Pool to participate in the national training camp.

On Team Composition, the hindrance is the latter on which if the NBA does not agree to a compromised accord or the players themselves are not willing due to the negotiations still ongoing.

On Team preparation, USAB will take care of that.

[Ciscorlie Horford]

ON ASSUMPTION that the NBA lockout drags on for a year, how do you think will this affect the preparation then composition of Team USA?

that's at the end of 2012. I don't think it will affect it at all even if the season is lost, they have a lot of time to deal with the Olympics

[cardenales]

If the NBA players dont go overseas to play in other profesional leagues around the world, it would be very smart, if they let NBA players play at London because it would help the players get back in shape after almost a year without playing competitive ball.

[CKR13]

NBA Season is not Lost

If the Lockout is resolved and the NBA 2011-2012 Season is not lost, it leaves Team USA with less than a month to prepare for the tournament as the NBA Finals closes in mid June. Less time for training camp for the players to shape up and gel with one another. Less time for the coaching staff to evaluate closely the players in the pool.

Everything has to be done in a short amount of time. There is also the possibility of pool selection where the coaches have to narrow the pool to 15 players even during the NBA Playoffs. Those narrowed players could practice immediately.

NBA Season is Lost

Suppose an NBA Lockout is in the duration of July 2011 to June 2012. The London Olympics open in July 27, 2012.

As what I pointed on my previous post, an NBA Lockout that ends up devouring the whole season, it will have some risky benefits. Assuming the USA Basketball and the NBA / Team Owners agree to release the players and the players on the pool are willing to join the pool, then preparations can start early.

More time for a comprehensive and careful selection of players from the pool, more time for training camp and more time for players to gel on court.

[joeetterby]

I love basketball, played in the national leauge in sweden before i start as a real estate agent.

Good luck with you hooks :-)

Johan

Köpa bostad, Sälja Bostad

[turk-jugoslav]

Imagine RP with this team:

Cyro Bagio
Gabe Norwood 6"5"
Kerry Williams 6"5"
Jason Ballesteros 6"7"
Greg Slaughter 6"11"
Marcus Eugene Douhit 6"11"
Bring back Jimmy Alapga!!!!!!!!!! hehehehe

Please, the PBL should change that ridiculous rule that no foreign player taller than 6"6" can't play in the profesional league.
is it forbidden to have a foreign player who is over 6''6'' in your league????? why??? it is really interesting

[cardenales]

I cannot answer you that question Turk-Jugoslav, Im not phillipine, plus I dont know much of the phillipines profesional league.

[sinobball]

I cannot answer you that question Turk-Jugoslav, Im not phillipine, plus I dont know much of the phillipines profesional league.

http://forums.interbasket.net/f24/national-leagues-with-height-limits-no-16204/

[cardenales]

Phillipines with height limit and Taiwan with height limit. Wao!!!!!! this show me that this federations dont want to improve.

[Ciscorlie Horford]

Phillipines with height limit and Taiwan with height limit. Wao!!!!!! this show me that this federations dont want to improve.

no wonder they they dod so bad against tall teams in international competitions because they are nto used to playing against tall players.

the last time AI saw a Phillipines game they had a fat 6'6" starting center playing against Yao Ming.

[carlo]

Found in USAB page a link to this ESPN article on NBA lockout.
In case the season is lost the line held by the players' union would probably be a deciding factor, hoping it wouldn't be a repeat of the 1998 World championship.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?page=TeamUSA-Lockout-110712

[cardenales]

We are one year away from the olympics, from now to there, this lockout should be over.

[cardenales]

Ciscorlie Horford, they fat guy of 6"6" you are saying, facing Yao Ming should be Asi Taulava. Asi is 6"9", and they also have Japeth Aguilar who is also 6"9"and a lot younger.

[Ciscorlie Horford]

Ciscorlie Horford, they fat guy of 6"6" you are saying, facing Yao Ming should be Asi Taulava. Asi is 6"9", and they also have Japeth Aguilar who is also 6"9"and a lot younger.

Tualava 6'9" please 6'7.75" at best

[CKR13]

VxSpDDUtzvQ

[rocketstar47]

hoping we could play in london

[CKR13]

Brazil and Argentina aboard.

[Southpaw]

Ciscorlie Horford, they fat guy of 6"6" you are saying, facing Yao Ming should be Asi Taulava. Asi is 6"9", and they also have Japeth Aguilar who is also 6"9"and a lot younger.

That's a full blooded Tongan who faked his papers to claim he got some Filipino blood. He even brought his mother but no relatives can be trace to his roots. Its stranger than fiction but Our country gave him a pass with politics and money.

[Mojado]

So now Spain wants an exception since they...are Spain?!
http://www.deltaworld.org/sport/S-ez-Ibaka-and-Mirotic-end-up-playing-together-in-the-selection/

[rikhardur]

So now Spain wants an exception since they...are Spain?!
http://www.deltaworld.org/sport/S-ez-Ibaka-and-Mirotic-end-up-playing-together-in-the-selection/
Customised rules, way to go Spain :rolleyes:

[afroditi]

i prefer to see Ibaka and Mirotic and players that developed basketball-wise in s country to play in a country's NT, instead of Americans just showing up like McCalebb, Rowland, Haynes etc.

[cardenales]

What about Puerto Rico to qualify? I want Puerto Rico to qualify.

[CKR13]

https://www.amincousa.com/zcart/images/loc/loc-1057.gif

http://www.glamorousliving.co.uk/ccdata/images/imageMain_2_134.jpg

[qiangdade]

Spain will play Australia in friendly game this summer (http://bballheadlines.wordpress.com/2012/02/13/spain-will-take-on-australia-in-friendly-game/)

[Federoy]

What in the hell is this thing suppose to be? A dunking amoeba wearing Ukrainian and Kenyan flag-colored wristbands? Surely the British could've come up with a better mascot.

[CKR13]

What in the hell is this thing suppose to be? A dunking amoeba wearing Ukrainian and Kenyan flag-colored wristbands? Surely the British could've come up with a better mascot.

Meet Wenlock (http://londonolympics-2012.net/2011/02/18/about-wenlock/#axzz1nKuJ8vpb):


Hello, I’m Wenlock, the official mascot for the London 2012 Olympic Games!

How did I get my name?
My name is inspired by Much Wenlock in Shropshire, a town that is at the heart of Olympic history. In the 19th century, Baron Pierre de Coubertin was invited there to watch the ‘Much Wenlock Games’ inspired by the Olympic Games of ancient Greece. De Coubertin was inspired by the Wenlock Games too, and went on to found the modern Olympic movement. The Much Wenlock Games are still held annually to this day!

My most distinctive features
Do you like the light on my head? It’s inspired by the lights on London’s iconic black taxis. The shape of the front of my head is based on the shape of the Olympic Stadium roof. My eye is a camera lens, capturing everything I see as I go..

If you’re wondering about the three points on my head – well, they represent the places on the podium where successful athletes stand to receive their medals. I can’t wait to meet some of Britain’s London 2012 hopefuls – and I really hope they will achieve their personal best at the Games and get to stand on the podium too.

A bit more about me
I love all the Olympic sports – and can’t wait to find out more about them! I’ve got from now until summer 2012 to learn everything I can – there’s almost nothing I like more than discovering new things. The only thing better is making friends and seeing other people make friends. The bracelets on my wrists are friendship bands, in the colours of the five Olympic rings. I can’t wait to meet as many people as possible, around the UK and even the world. I hope you’ll be my friend too?

Life is all about having fun and I always look on the bright side. Why? Because there are so many fantastic people who are positive and upbeat and make me laugh. It’s that kind of person who really inspires me to do my personal best. I will do everything I can to help you do your best as well!



Quite a jolly fellow the lad is, despite being a PIXAR reject.

[Mojado]

A dunking piece of sh... is Rio going to have a butt as a mascot with a thong in between?

[CKR13]

Protesters from the St. Paul rally are threatening to occupy the Olympic basketball site. A recent demonstration showed protesters numbering around 200 or more setting up 15-20 units of camping tents.

[carlo]

Prelim Great Britain roster of 21 has been announced and called the "strongest team Britain ever".

http://www.ballineurope.com/national-teams/britain-preliminary-roster-olympics-9434/

[JGX]

Sullivan Phillips played for Bermuda at last year's CBC championship, how can he be in the GB squad? I know that FIBA enforces their eligibility rules selectively and creatively but this would be the first case I can think of where a player switched after representing another country at senior level in an official tournament.

BJ Mullens really is not a very good player.

[Mindozas]

Sullivan Phillips played for Bermuda at last year's CBC championship, how can he be in the GB squad? I know that FIBA enforces their eligibility rules selectively and creatively but this would be the first case I can think of where a player switched after representing another country at senior level in an official tournament.

BJ Mullens really is not a very good player.

Not the 1st time, it was a case f.e. with Vasco Evtimov, who played for France (2001) and Bulgaria (2009 if I recall correctly) in Eurobasket. Also Ermal Kuqo (Turkey/Albania), Rasim Basak (Turkey/Azerbaidjan), last year it was a case between French and Seenegalese federations with 3 players involved, but France didn't allow all of them to play for Senegal, don't remember if finally any of them played. maybe there're some other cases like that, just too lazy to think about it. Basically federations must agee, then it's up to FIBA to allow the move or not, usually they does

[JGX]

Not the 1st time, it was a case f.e. with Vasco Evtimov, who played for France (2001) and Bulgaria (2009 if I recall correctly) in Eurobasket. Also Ermal Kuqo (Turkey/Albania)

You're right. Kuqo even went from Albania to Turkey back to Albania. I think two countries in two consecutive years is a new one though.

Phillips is definitely the only player on a preliminary Olympic squad to have played three years of professional soccer in the US second division.

[Mojado]

Sullivan Phillips played for Bermuda at last year's CBC championship, how can he be in the GB squad? I know that FIBA enforces their eligibility rules selectively and creatively but this would be the first case I can think of where a player switched after representing another country at senior level in an official tournament.

BJ Mullens really is not a very good player.

Damn, you are fast! I just found out about it and posted it into another thread :) How in the world will be Ben Gordon eligible to play, since Mullens had no passport before now and counts against the limit?

[Mojado]

You're right. Kuqo even went from Albania to Turkey back to Albania. I think two countries in two consecutive years is a new one though.

Phillips is definitely the only player on a preliminary Olympic squad to have played three years of professional soccer in the US second division.


I think Kuqo did not play for Albania prior to his national-team stint in Turkey. At least I was not able to track it down on the web.

Phillips played with the Bermuda in the Island Games in the past. From playing against the Isle of Man up now to play in the Olympics...fodder for a story

[Dtown]

Damn, you are fast! I just found out about it and posted it into another thread :) How in the world will be Ben Gordon eligible to play, since Mullens had no passport before now and counts against the limit?

Ben Gordon was born in London, England and has dual citizenship I believe. So he doesn't need a passport.

[JGX]

I think Kuqo did not play for Albania prior to his national-team stint in Turkey. At least I was not able to track it down on the web.


FIBA archive site has him playing for Albania in qualifying for 1997 and 1999 Eurobaskets. However after doing some more digging, I suspect that was actually Artan Kuqo.

[Mojado]

FIBA archive site has him playing for Albania in qualifying for 1997 and 1999 Eurobaskets. However after doing some more digging, I suspect that was actually Artan Kuqo.

Thanks for clearing it up.

Phillips might be eligible since Great Britain's national-team consists of all formerly-independent working federations of Scotland, Wales, England and Northern Ireland (I'm guessing the last one).Maybe the Bermuda one is included now as well...which also means their participation in FIBA tournaments is not possible anymore.
Same would count for Gibraltar, who even have one kid playing on a U.S. college... :)

[JGX]

Phillips might be eligible since Great Britain's national-team consists of all formerly-independent working federations of Scotland, Wales, England and Northern Ireland (I'm guessing the last one).

I don't think Northern Ireland ever had their own federation...they're part of Basketball Ireland.

There was a small article in one of the Bermudan papers about Phillips being called up by GB but it didn't say anything about his eligibility. In the meantime, this seems to be the major story in Bermuda:
Ginger beer supplies arrive to avert national Dark ‘n’ Stormy crisis (http://www.royalgazette.com/article/20120413/BUSINESS03/704139971)

[Mojado]

I don't think Northern Ireland ever had their own federation...they're part of Basketball Ireland.

There was a small article in one of the Bermudan papers about Phillips being called up by GB but it didn't say anything about his eligibility. In the meantime, this seems to be the major story in Bermuda:
Ginger beer supplies arrive to avert national Dark ‘n’ Stormy crisis (http://www.royalgazette.com/article/20120413/BUSINESS03/704139971)

What would the world be without ginger beer - a peaceful place. All these border clashes and cold war-situations...

[GustavoGanso]

i have some news of Brazil NT

the North-American Point Guard of Bauru Basketball, Larry Taylor will be declared officially able to play in olympics for Brazil this Monday..

Brazil will play a Super 4 in Sao Carlos with Greece, New Zealand and Tunisia... we will play against United States in Las Vegas July 16th (my birth date lol)

Magnano will announce the squad in next days i hope... 11 players will be guaranteed for sure:

Huertas and Larry
Barbosa, Alex Garcia, Marcelinho Machado, Marquinhos and Guilherme Giovannoni
Nene Hilario, Tiago Splitter, Rafael Hettsheimeir and Anderson Varejao

1 slot remaining... some other good names

PG: Raul Neto, Rafael Freire Luz, Scott Machado and Vitor Benite (Nezinho Dos Santos, the old one)

PF and C: Augusto Cesar Lima, Caio Torres, Murilo Becker (best player of our home league, but don't have international level in my opinion), Fab Melo, Paulao Prestes and Vitor Faverani (playing well last games of Valencia in ACB)

let's wait for next weeks.

[CKR13]

I'm not sure if Yao Ming will fly to London for his commentary on the Chinese men's games. Maybe Yao will just stay in China and simulcast it with the game.

[perucho123]

I am looking forward to seeing Brazil in the olympics . I think Magnano will get the best Brazil have to offer . I would like to see Nene,anderson ,thiago,barbosa and huertas - role players should be marquinos ,larry,marcelino,hettsheimer, and 2 youngsters who will be drafted and play in the NBA like scott machado and fab melo

[Hepcat]

What are the latest odds bookies are posting to win the gold in basketball at the Olympics? Any odds for just making the final?

:confused:

[Mindozas]

What are the latest odds bookies are posting to win the gold in basketball at the Olympics? Any odds for just making the final?

:confused:

http://www.oddsportal.com/basketball/world/olympic-games/outrights/

http://www.betbrain.com/basketball/england/london-basketball/#!/winner/

[callten061]

I'm not sure if Yao Ming will fly to London for his commentary on the Chinese men's games. Maybe Yao will just stay in China and simulcast it with the game.
i agree.. Maybe Yao will just stay

[Visseira]

Is anybody uploading games on youtube? Or any other site where I can watch it online, without having to download?

[sinobball]

Is anybody uploading games on youtube? Or any other site where I can watch it online, without having to download?I don't think anything is available on youtube, short videos taped from TV using a cell phone or something even got taken off by IOC.


i agree.. Maybe Yao will just stayHe's in London already.

[bobo81]

does anyone know where I can watch the highlights of these games? YouTube is doing a great job of deleting every vid

[Visseira]

Great website: http://aleksinasblueworld.blogspot.com.es
Uploaded all the games of Day 3

[JRS Bonnet]

12th China (0-5)

Erratic coaching, poor attacking systems, soft defense.

Despite decent stats, more was expected from PF Yi Jianlian: 14.8 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.20 blocks (but a FG% of only 42.9).

C Zhang Zhaoxu is about the same height as the better-know Nezdad Sinanovic and has similar basketball skills.

My respects to legendary Wang Zhizhi (6.0 points, 5.2 rebounds) on his last Olympic campaign.

MVP ‒ Swingman Wang Shipeng: 9.6 points, 13/21 (61.9%) from behind the arch.


11th Tunisia (0-5)

Despite losing to Nigeria, Tunisia left a better impression than their African rivals.

Marouan Kechrid’s absence probably cost Tunisia a well-deserved win: Tunisia’s best point-guard would have been very useful against Jasikevicius and Kalnietis.

After a poor season with Antwerp Giants, I wasn´t expecting this kind of tournament from Salah Mejri (2.16, 1986): 10.4 points, 10.0 rebounds, 3.4 blocks and… 37.7 FG%. Hope to see him in a more competitive league.

Veteran SF Amine Rzig (9.0 points, 3.0 rebounds) had a couple of good games (Nigeria, Lithuania).

It´s intriguing why a bidding war didn’t yet break out for young power-forward Makrem Ben Romdhane: 15.0 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.8 steals.