Dimitris Diamantidis is not a name most American basketball followers are familiar with. But to those hardcore fans in Europe and especially Greece, Diamantidis is considered a basketball god. The 30-year-old guard/forward known for his defense and versatility has a resume worthy of Greek mythology. He is a four-time Greek League MVP, five-time Euroleague defensive … [Read more…]
Because of the lack of star power currently competing in the FIBA World Championship in Turkey, some members of the basketball media have tabbed this year’s event as the “B-rated” championships. But don’t tell that to the individuals who have clearly set themselves apart from the rest of the competition and put together A-plus performances … [Read more…]
Don’t cry for Argentina just yet. Even though the South Americans don’t have their best player, Manu Ginobili, in the 2010 FIBA World Championship, the 2004 Olympic gold-medalists are still a threat to contend for a medal in Turkey. Luis Scola has become the unquestionable leader of the team and he having a very good … [Read more…]
Despite the absence of forwards Nene and Anderson Varejao, Brazil came within a basket of tying the United States at the end of regulation in Monday’s Group B matchup in the 2010 FIBA World Championship in Turkey. Fortunately for the Americans, Leandro Barbosa took the point-blank shot and – not surprisingly – missed. It was … [Read more…]
With Les Bleus still reeling from the debacle that occurred at the World Cup in South Africa, the French basketball team is doing its best to bring some much needed amour and dignite back to the country. Through the first three games at the 2010 FIBA World Championship in Turkey, France is in first place … [Read more…]
When training camp started a month ago, Eric Gordon was a longshot to make the United States national team. But with each passing scrimmage and exhibition game, it became more and more evident that the L.A. Clippers guard had the perfect game to play against international competition. Gordon made it extremely difficult for team officials … [Read more…]
In somewhat of a surprising move, Rajon Rondo has decided to withdraw from the United States basketball team. Rondo told USA Basketball President Jerry Colangelo that he had some personal matters. Translation: Rondo saved himself the embarrassment of being cut from the squad. The Boston Celtics All-Star point guard saw the writing on the wall … [Read more…]
The year 2010 has been very kind to Spain. In June, Pau Gasol won his second NBA championship with the Lakers. A few weeks later, Rafael Nadal won his second Wimbledon title. In July, Alberto Contador captured his third consecutive Tour de France title and the Spanish soccer team won its first World Cup. It … [Read more…]
In a possible semifinal preview at the 2010 World Championship in Turkey, the United States and Spain – arguably two of the best teams in the world – went toe to toe in an exhibition game on Sunday in Madrid and the Americans barely won, 86-85, thanks to two free throws by Derrick Rose. Kevin … [Read more…]
Team USA got a little taste of what the 2010 World Championship will be like when Kevin Durant and Co. struggled against a rugged Lithuanian squad in Saturday’s exhibition game in Madrid, Spain. The U.S. managed to pull out a 77-61 despite a very slow start. Playing in their first international game outside of the … [Read more…]