Beruflich Dokumente
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assist39
don showalter
post drills lionel hollins
manuel trujillo vargas
playing in transition high-
giampiero ticchi
2-1-2 zone defense
percentage
plays
cavelier-orlu
the american way
tables of contents
Right or Wrong? 39
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Post Drills
area and must know how to score with
their back to the basket.
HAWK DRILLS
This half-court drills use all of your play-
ers and has them work on passing, post
moves, and relocating to different spots
to shoot and pass.
against the defending coach. The shooter the baseline and makes an entry pass to 1. takes the pass for a quick catch-and-
rebounds and the players switch lanes 1 executes a post-up move against the de- shoot jump shot. The shooter rebounds
(diagr. 2). fending coach. The shooter rebounds and and the players switch lanes (diagr. 4).
the players switch lanes (diagr. 3).
Relocate The Passing Angle: This drill is RE-POST
the same as the previous drill, but, after Post-Wing Kickout: 1 passes to 2 and This drill is executed just like the previ-
receiving the initial pass, the wing dribbles breaks down low to post up on the low ous drill except that when the post player
toward the baseline for a better passing block. 2 takes a few hard, quick dribbles passes the ball back out, he continues to
angle into the post. 1 passes to 2 and to the baseline and makes an entry pass fight for better post position against the
breaks down low to post up on the low to 1. 1 fakes a post-up shot and passes defending coach. 2 throws an entry pass
block. 2 takes a few hard, quick dribbles to the ball back out to 2 on the wing, who back to 1, who then makes a post-up
Fiba Assist Magazine | 39 2009 | Page 5
COACHES - FUNDAMENTALS AND YOUTH BASKETBALL
move and takes a shot. The shooter re-
bounds and the players switch lanes (di-
agr. 5).
Playing
by Manuel Trujillo
Vargas in Transition
Manuel Trujillo Vargas begins his
coaching career in Malaga, in the EBA
league coaching the teams of El Palo,
Universidad de Malaga and Unicaja. He
coached youth teams until the season
2007/2008 when he became assistant
coach at Clínicas Rincón, in LEB Oro,
the second Spanish division. He won a
Spanish University championship in
2002 and a Spanish Junior champion-
ship in 2008 with Unicaja, being select-
ed as best coach of the tournament.
D.4
pass for a three-point shot becomes a Third Option they have an advantage with their direct
real option and allows a shot to be taken Ball in the low post. In this case we will opponent, while 3 is always considered
with the feet on the ground, which in- change our play according to the player as a real option. 5 occupies the spot at
creases shooting percentages. By focus- who goes to the post. the high post (free-throw line) and 4 the
ing on the three-point shot, it lessens the spot on the perimeter.
possibility of a turnover that could come if GUARD IN THE LOW POST When the ball enters the low post, there
a player tries to force a pass inside. We use these options with 1 and 2 only if are no cuts, but rotations of spaces on
4 IN LOW POST
5 occupies the high post, while 1, 2 and 3
stay open (only on the side with 4).
If the ball enters the low post, the passer
cuts aggressively on the baseline. If 4 is
in the mid post with the ball (diagr. 5) or
around the high point of the free-throw
lane if 4 is under the mid post. After the D.6 D.10
passer’s cut, 5 will cut looking to the op-
posite low post and spot up near the
baseline (diagr 6). This play between big
men is usually very effective.
If the ball does not go directly to the low
post because of a good defense, we play
a direct screen between the man with
ball and 5. We continue with 5 rolling to
the hoop after the screen, with 4 going
from the low post to the three-point line,
punishing the defense of inside players,
who are not used to defending on the
perimeter (diagr. 7). If the defense closes D.7 D.11
on 5, we will still have a good open
three-point shot with the possibility of an
offensive rebound.
5 IN LOW POST
5 gains the spot, 4 in the key-point (in the
middle), while 1, 2 and 3 stay open.
If the ball goes to 5, we use the same
rules we previously used with 4. That is
to say, the passer cuts and 4 goes to the
opposite low post, near the three-point
line. If there’s not a direct pass, because
of a three-quarters defense or there is a D.12
D.8
strong defense against the post, we trian-
gle with 4 who will make a lob pass to 5
(diagr. 8). DETAILS ON PLAYING WITH SCREENS jumps on the ball, the man with the ball
If we can’t change the ball side because AGAINST VARIOUS DEFENSES will do a step back and then play with 4,
of good defense, we play a direct screen 5 makes the direct screen in central po- who comes out. 4 will have extra room,
with 4 at the three-point line, while 5 will sition: I consider this one the most diffi- since his defender will be recovering af-
take a strong position inside the area cult situations to defend, because the ter the help on 5, or will have space be-
(diagr. 9). We try to create a situation defensive helps are not well defined and cause the two defenders have decided
where we have a side one-on-one with a the defense is uncertain. to switch (diagr. 11 and 12).
lot of space for 4. He will then have the I will now describe the most common Facing a passive defense, we repeat the
option to make an easy shot from the defensive options for these screens and screen, while 4 changes his position on
three-point line or create a definitive ad- will propose solutions. the baseline so he can create space for
vantage (diagr. 10). In front of an aggressive defense that the possible penetration of the man with
page 10 | 39 2009 | Fiba Assist Magazine
D.13 D.14 D.16
Attacking
by Kevin Sutton
Zone Defense
Kevin Sutton is the head coach of Mont-
verde Academy in Florida and he is con-
sidered one of the best high school
coach in the USA. He was selected as
assistant coach of the USA Men’s Under
16 National Team in 2009, winning the
gold medal at FIBA America’s Champi-
onship in Argentina, and qualifying for
the FIBA World Championship in 2010.
During the summer he also coaches at
some of the best basketball camps, such
as the Nike Skillz Academy, the Five
Star Camp and the basketball camp of
Lebron James, Kobe Bryant and Steve
Nash. Moreover, he's also author of sev-
eral technical publications on DVD.
INTRODUCTION
Zone defenses used to put a lot of fear in
me as a young coach. As I have grown
as a coach, however, I have literally
faced every zone possible: 2-3, 1-3-1, 3-2,
1-1-3, 2-1-2, and 1-2-2. The primary les-
son I have learned when facing these
different zones is this: when the ball is in
the corner, every zone becomes a 1-2-2
zone! It is from this finding/premise that I
started to develop my "Attacking Zone
Defense Philosophy." In this article I am
going to address the following topics:
D.3 D.7
These set plays have been very good to ▼ Z3 is from diagram 13 to diagram 19. movements of your offense.
me over the course of my coaching ca- ▼ Z4 is from diagram 20 to diagram 24. By doing this, it will give your players the
reer. When they are run correctly they ▼ Z5 is from diagram 25 to diagram 31. confidence they will need to take -and
are difficult to defend. make- those same shots during a game.
Timing, spacing and coordinated move- CONCLUSION Lastly, I challenge you to continue to study
ment are all important to the effective- More teams are choosing to play zone de- the game.
ness of the play. The names of the play- fenses. Therefore, I challenge you to de- When you become a student of the game
ers are Z1-5: velop your principles/philosophy/beliefs as a coach, you are making yourself a bet-
▼ Z1 is from diagram 1 to diagram 6. of how you want to attack zone defenses. ter coach and teacher, thereby making
▼ Z2 is from diagram 7 to diagram 12. Design shooting drills that simulate the your team a better team!
Fiba Assist Magazine | 39 2009 | Page 15
COACHES - offense
High-Percentage
by Lionel Hollins
Plays
OFFENSIVE PRINCIPLES
I would like to describe some high-per-
centage offensive plays that our team has
used effectively in the NBA -our offensive
philosophy centers around a few simple
principles. Conscious of the 24-second
clock, we get the ball as quickly as possi-
ble to the man we want to run the play;
this allows him time to survey the situation
and make a play for himself or a teammate.
In keeping with our quick-stricking em-
phasis, we strive to get to the shot with
one or two passes to decrease the chance
of a steal by our opponents. We frequently
use screen-the-screener plays, where the
player who makes the screen then re-
ceives a screen himself right away (which
forces defenders into difficult recoveries).
We also use the staggered screen, a se-
ries of two or three screens in a row,
which are very difficult for a defender to
Fiba Assist Magazine | 39 2009 | Page 17
COACHES - offense
D.1
D.2
D.3
PERSONNEL SKILLS
These are the skills we looked for from our
starting five:
▼ 1 is the point guard, with good court vi-
sion and passing and dribbling skills.
He also need to be a good penetrator.
▼ 2 is a big guard, a good outside shoot-
er, a good passer, and able to put the
ball on the floor and post up smaller
players.
▼ 3 is the small forward, our best shooter
from the three-point range, a good post
player, and our second best scorer.
▼ 4 is the power forward, who can score
inside and is quick and agile enough to
move outside for the shot or drive to
the basket.
▼ 5 is our center, tall, aggressive on the
boards and able to run to the floor.
SCORING PLAYS
We start the game with our “special 1”
play for our top scorer. We want him to
score the first basket of the game to build
his confidence. We then run plays for our
other scorers, mainly our 2 (off guard) and
3 (small forward), while trying to include
solutions for every player on the court. We lob pass to 4 when 4’s defender (X4) moves side of the court, staying high, 2 curls
want to get everyone involved offensively to the top of the screen and no defender around 3, and, as soon as 2 rubs around
as early as we could. We use a lot of isola- can help on 4. If 4 can’t receive the ball off the shoulder of 3, 3 pops out of the lane to
tion plays for our top scorer, as well as for the screen, he sets up at the low post, receive the ball from 1. 1 can also pass to
the other four players on the court. where 1 hits him with a pass (diagr. 1). If 2 on the curl. If 2 doesn’t receive the ball
there’s no pass open to 4, 5 screens for 2 on the curl, he continues the cut and
SPECIAL 1 (screen-the-screener action), who comes screens for 4, who crosses near the base-
This is an excellent play to use at the start off the screen to receive from 1. Or 5 can line and receives the ball from 3. After
of a game, usually for your top scorer. Put roll and receive from 1. screening for 4, if the defenders are cheat-
5 and 4 outside the three-second lane, 2 at ing too much, 2 is vertically screened by 5
the low post, and 3 at the wing below the UTAH (screen the screener), and 1 holds the ball
free-throw line extended. 1 drives the ball We took it from the Utah Jazz, who ran it for a moment before passing to 2 (diagr. 2).
on offense, dribbling to the left side of the for Karl Malone. Here 2 and 3 form a stack Another solution for 3 is the pass to 5, who
court, where the top scorer is set. When 1 on the left side of the court, 5 is out at the has rolled to the basket after setting the
reaches the free-throw line extended, 2 top of the three-second lane extended, screen for 2.
makes a diagonal screen for 4, who cuts to opposite to the stack, and 4 is just outside You can run this play as described if your
the basket to receive the ball from 1. Usu- of the three-second lane, on the right side point guard draws a lot of defensive pres-
ally once or twice a game 1 can make a of the court. 1 drives the ball on the left sure and has a difficult time passing the
3 QUICK
This play is run for the 3 player in the post.
He posts up in the low-post position on the
right of the court. 4 is on the left corner of
the free-throw lane; 5 is on the opposite
side, outside the three-second lane; 2 is on
the right side of the free-throw line extend-
ed; and 1, with the ball, is in the middle of
the court. 1 passes to 4 and then goes in
the opposite direction, spotting up outside
the three-point line; 2 runs to the corner. As
soon as 4 receives the ball from 1, 3 makes
a flash cut to the lane. If he doesn’t receive
the ball right away, he moves to the oppo-
site low-post position, and 4 tries to get him
the ball. After the pass, 4 dives opposite di-
agonally and replaces 3 at the right low
post. 5 holds his position for a moment and
then flashes to the left corner of the free-
throw lane and, if his defender goes to dou-
ble team 3, receives the ball to take a jump
shot (diagr. 8). 3 has three options for where
to start the play: on the right low post, on
the left box, or on the left wing.
2-1-2
by Giampiero Ticchi
Zone Defense
D.1
D.2
D.3
D.5 D.8
DRILLS
1. First Line Communication D.6 D.9
The two players of the first line defend
against the offense overloaded with three
players set on the perimeter. With the ball recovered, he can move back to defend When the high post receives the ball, the
on the side, the players of the first line his original spot. first line defenders don’t have to defend
have to “push” the offense near the I don’t recommend making a direct move him anymore. The defender in the middle
baseline (diagr. 2). to the starting position, but I suggest that will defend against him.
the player makes a “banana cut,” which The first defenders will not guard the
2. Collaboration Between the First and will help prevent penetration into the ball, but they will guard the shooters on
the Second line middle. the perimeter and take care of all cuts
The ball goes from an external player to The fundamental thing, as always, is for near the basket that are made by exter-
another and the defenders have to move players to comunicate and let each other nal players (diagr. 4).
themselves together. This automatic know when they are back in their start-
“help and recover” system with the sec- ing position (diagr. 3). 4. Collaboration Between the Second
ond line defender is very important. The Line and the Middle
second line defender on the strong side 3. Collaboration Between the First Line We must not allow passes to offensive
must help when the wing receives the and the Middle low post, trying always to anticipate
ball, and continue to help until his team- The first line defenders have to keep the them. It's also important the mechanism
mate has recovered. ball from getting to the high post. I prefer to defend in the corner with the man in
The help must succeed in preventing an (but I don’t demand that the players do the middle, who anticipates the low post
easy shot, in maintaining the position this) that the defender stays open, up to- at three-quarter, giving his back to the
against the one-on-one play of the wing, wards the ball so he can occupy more midcourt line. If the low post sets himself
pushing him near the central lane (where space and recover more quickly. He has in a middle-post position, I recommend
the defense helps better). to try to keep from being boxed out by that the defender anticipates the offen-
When the defender notes that his team- screens for the shooter that are set by sive player at three-quarter, giving his
mate on the first line has successfully the post on the weak side. back to the baseline (diagr. 5).
Fiba Assist Magazine | 39 2009 | Page 25
COACHES - DEFENSE
5. “Help-and-Recover” Drill offense. This is a very useful exercise be- ▼ The defender on the ball must avoid
I try to practice against some of the situ- cause it will prepare the team for situ- the penetration from the central lane
ations that we often find ourselves in tions that they will see during the game, (rule for the first line defenders).
when we use the zone defense. For ex- when the offense is overloaded. ▼ If the player with the ball uses the
ample, when the offense is overloaded, Playing against an overloaded offensive screen succesfully, the defender on
the second line defender must help by is funny and competitive; I make great the ball follows him to avoid an easy
leaving an offensive player open in the use of it during training camp workouts. basket.
corner. In this case, it’s important to re- In the 6-on-5 drill, keep the offense set in ▼ The defender in the middle must de-
cover to avoid a three-point shot from the precise positions (without tryng to score). fend against penetrations, while his
player on the wing; we must occupy the The defense has one less player and the first line teammate must never defend
proper space to succeed in defending offense can move itself using several on the ball. He has to worry about
against a one-on-two situation in the best cuts (diagr. 8 and 9). what might happen on the weak side
possible way. During 5-on-5 drills, we closely examine (diagr. 14).
As we have already seen, we allow the defensive situations that help us keep the We use many drills that emphasize box-
possible penetration near the central ball from getting to the high or low post ing out. Rebounding is one of the poten-
lane and, at the same time, we go to de- (very dangerous positions because they tial weak points with a zone defense and
fend on the passing line toward the cor- create advantages for the offense), and players have to become conditioned to
ner. Doing this, we try to avoid an easy try to learn how to behave if the offense get in position right away after a shot is
pass to the offensive player, who is now receives the ball in these positions. taken so they can get the rebound. In ad-
open in the corner (diagr. 6). If the ball goes in the high or low post, I dition to this, we work a lot in running into
Another common situation occurs when ask the defenders far from the ball to the fastbreak after the rebound. Using
the ball is passed in the corner, after the match themselves with their nearest ri- the zone defense, we succeed in creat-
pass is made, the player then cuts in the val; every time the ball goes in the high or ing many easy fastbreak opportunities,
middle. Who receives the ball then re- low post, our defense becomes a man- because our rivals (after having attacked
place, dribbling, the teammate who have to-man defense. a zone defense) are not able to quickly
passed him the ball. In this situation, the It’s not possible to introduce this idea match themselves with us during their
communication between the defenders when you build your defense, but you can defensive transition (diagr. 15).
is essential; the defender who guards the do it afterwards (diagr. 10, 11 and 12).
man with the ball set in the corner re- SUMMARY
mains with him until the first line defend- 6. Avoid the Catch on the Cuts Every zone defense can be shaped to fit
er tells him to go back to defend in his We spend a lot of time working against the particular talents of your team; find
proper area. At this point, the first line cuts. Our aim is to avoid easy catches on the one that you think is best. If you are
defender will guard the player with the the cuts in the painted area (diagr. 13). not sure about teaching a specific type of
ball (diagr. 7). Many teams use ball-screens to attack zone defense, because you think that
After having practiced against some of the zone defenses and when you have zone defense doesn’t fit with your teams’
the most common game situations, let high screens on the ball, here is what technical skills, then surely that zone de-
the defense play against an overloaded your players must do: fense won’t be effective.
page 26 | 39 2009 | Fiba Assist Magazine
www.sinalco.com
GLOBAL PARTNER
COACHES
Difficulties for
an American Player
page 28 | 39 2009 | Fiba Assist Magazine
strength, quickness, and a week or two course of a year working together, the At the 2008 Olympic games in Beijing, the
of team preparation. They had to play Americans and their NBA stars lost U.S. national team recovered part of
tough defense. They had to work as a again, this time to Spain in a game for their lost supremacy, succeeding in
team. This decided lack of preparation fifth place at the 2006 FIBA World Cham- beating Spain in the gold medal final. We
was evident when the Americans again pionships. The tournament was played in have to admit that, playing with the FIBA
lost, this time in the semifinals of the Indianopolis, Indiana and home-town rules, the NBA players were somewhat
2004 FIBA World Championships to Ar- fans got to see that Team USA and their at a disadvantage -but not completely-
gentina. Still not understanding that NBA players were no longer the best in because some referees were liberal in
more time had to be spent over the the world. their interpretation of some rules, like
Fiba Assist Magazine | 39 2009 | Page 29
COACHES
the travelling violation, for example. In
the future, the complete unification of
the rules will bring many advantages.
The NBA has introduced new rules, like
the zone defense, and many teams are
trying to adapt it and make it part of their
standard repertoire. The adoption of the
zone indicates that the NBA has admit-
ted and recognized that its game was
becoming too individualistic (too many
one-on-ones) and was losing the funda-
mental characteristic of our sport, which
is team work.
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COACHES - hoop market
The fundamentals
by Raffaele Imbrogno
of the game
Raffaele Imbrogno has been coaching
since 1980. He is an Instructor for the In this section, we introduce the latest books, videos, CDs, and other tools that are
Italian National Coaches Committee of primarily aimed at coaches, but certainly useful for all of our readers. Please send
the Federation and has been Director of your suggestions and comments about our basketball-related media for review in
the Italian Basketball Federation Study this section.
Center. Imbrogno is also the author of
several technical basketball publica-
tions.
mental
by Alan Richardson
toughness
Alan Richardson has been a FIBA refe- that constantly shapes the state of mind other mentally weak, might react to miss-
ree from 1978 to 1998. He then became in a positive and confident way. Mental ing a foul on the play. The ideal
Referee Clinic Instructor from 1996 to toughness is a state of mind that officials performance state and mental toughness
2000. Since 2000, he is the Technical Ad- can develop by applying these princi- we seek are characterised by a clear
visor of the Referee Department of the ples: sense of purpose and direction, a high
Euroleague. ▼ Think like a winner. Show high self- degree of resilience, emotional calmness
belief and expect to be successful. and the fuel of high positive energy.
MENTAL TOUGHNESS ▼ Positive vision leads to positive reali- The following steps should become es-
Mental toughness is many things and ties; they always have and always sential elements of officials’ training and
rather difficult to explain. Its qualities are will. performance routines.
sacrifice and self-denial. Also most im- ▼ Turn negatives into positives. Treat
portantly, it is combined with a perfectly setbacks as inevitable and learn from STEP ONE - DEVELOP STRONG SELF-IDENTITY
disciplined will that refuses to give in. It’s them to become a more complete of- Our performance is often the result of
a state of mind - you could call it charac- ficial. our expectations, so unless we think and
ter in action. Top basketball officials ▼ Deal with the unexpected. Regard feel like “winners” we will not perform
maintain confidence, self-control and demanding, changing situations as like “winners”. Officials should check
concentration during difficult and intense the ultimate challenge, enjoy being themselves for the following practices,
games. These abilities are survival skills. tested and believe that tough times which can develop a successful state of
All human activities are challenging, but do not last but tough people do. mind:
being successful at the top levels re- ▼ Remember you are successful - re-
quires great mental and emotional It is a well-established fact that a posi- call all your previous successes.
strength, alongside physical and techni- tive state of mind leads to positive ▼ Always look good - reflect the image
cal excellence. emotions and high positive energy need- of a successful official.
ed for successful performance. The table ▼ Control your thoughts and only use
FAILURE IS PART OF THE DANCE below illustrates the same process, al- positive self-talk.
The mentally tough official must be able beit very simply, using an example of how ▼ Be your own cheerleader - reward
to cope with insecurity, treat setbacks two officials, one mentally tough and the yourself on every good decision.
and mistakes as part of the price to be
paid and withstand what may seem like
constant criticism of performance. Set-
backs and mistakes have to be analysed,
FOUR STEPS TO MENTAL TOUGHNESS:
placed in the perspective of the whole
season, forgotten and then refocused on
MENTALLY TOUGH VERSUS MENTALLY WEAK
a positive approach that underlines the MENTALLY TOUGH MENTALL
benefits of staying strong in the face of Attitude Thinks, “I’ll get the next Thinks “I made a mess of that,”
adversity. The feelings of failure are in Change One,” remains positive and becomes negative and loses self-
reality the doorway to ultimate success; does not lose self-belief. belief.
of all the physical and mental qualities a
performer must possess, mental tough- Emotional Remains enthusiastic, Becomes irritated and
ness is the most important. Response stimulated and lively. discouraged, loses hope and
blames others.
MENTAL TOUGHNESS IS A WINNING ATTITUDE
Mental toughness is the ability to impose Resultant Remains positive in direction Becomes negative in direction
physically through performance, what an Energy and high in intensity. and low in intensity.
official is committed to mentally. If that State
commitment wavers because of a set-
back or mistake, then clearly the Effect on Recovers well and makes good Becomes nervous and hides in the
performance will lean towards failure. Performance decisions later in the game. game, being more concerned with
Officials, mentors and Instructors must the past than the future.
create a training and competition culture
page 34 | 39 2009 | Fiba Assist Magazine
▼ Become more assertive in dealing positive and successful behaviours. takes courage to step onto the court at
with difficult situations. ▼ Positive self-talk and confident body the start of the game. An official can only
▼ Accept responsibility for your ac- language will transform the anxious reach that level of arousal by being to-
tions: excuses are signs of official into a successful, assertive tally motivated.
weakness. official - fix the body language and Commitment to officiate is a choice and
▼ Be persistent - do not accept failure the mind stands tall. nothing can affect performance as dra-
too easily. matically as a sudden loss of motivation.
▼ Be onsistent to make success a hab- STEP TWO - BECOME AND STAY MOTIVATED Without motivation, without the drive to
it. The most important question an official achieve, the official cannot develop the
▼ Keep learning. Nobody knows every- must answer is why he/she commits to mental toughness to survive the chal-
thing. the challenge, accepts the criticism and lenge of basketball. Problems become
▼ Copy role models to help develop deals with the setbacks and mistakes. It barriers not challenges. Sources of moti-
vation are both intrinsic (internal) and
extrinsic (external). A mentally tough of-
ficial will be self-motivated and
self-directed.
The official is involved because he/she
SELF-DRIVEN wants to be.
The chart on the left identifies how the
SELF-REFERENCING official’s motivation must move through
certain stages, levels or challenges be-
INSTRUCTOR/ fore becoming an intrinsic element of
MENTOR DOMINATION mental toughness.
RIGHT OR WRONG?
The following questions focus on the doc- session throw-in, A3 commits a tech- five seconds to release the ball on the
ument, “FIBA Official Basketball Rules: nical foul. Following the throw-in that throw-in?
Official Interpretations.” A free download begins the next period, shall team A 5. A shot for a goal is in the air when the
is provided on the FIBA website (www.fi- be entitled to the next alternating signal sounds to end the 3rd period.
ba.com). For additional clarifications, ex- possession? After the signal but before the shot
planations or examples, please consult 3. A5 ends a dribble while airborne and for a goal has ended, A2 commits an
this document. comes to a stop by returning to the unsportsmanlike foul by striking B2
floor with both feet simultaneously. with an elbow. Shall the A2 foul be
1. During a single unsuccessful free A5 now pivots. Has A5 committed a considered to have happened during
throw awarded to A2, free throw vio- travelling violation? interval of play?
lations are committed first by B5 and 4. After the ball is placed at the disposal 6. During an alternating possession
then by A5. Shall play resume with a of A4 for an endline throw-in, A4 holds throw-in that begins a period, but be-
substitute free throw for A2? the ball for two seconds before pass- fore the throw-in has ended, a foul is
2. During an interval of play with team B ing the ball to A5 who is also out-of- committed. Shall this foul be consid-
entitled to the next alternating pos- bounds at that endline. Shall A5 have ered to have happened during playing
time?
7. B3 commits an interference violation
during a shot for a goal by A4. Shall
the resulting throw-in take place at
the free throw line extended?
8. The 4th period ends with the score
team A 80, team B 79. Before the ref-
eree has signed the scoresheet, it is
realized that a field goal scored by
team B with 20 seconds remaining in
the 4th period has been erroneously
credited to team A. Shall the referee
have the authority to correct the error
and change the final score?
9. A disqualifying personal foul is com-
mitted by A5 against B5. B5 is able to
remain in the game. May a player oth-
er than B5 attempt the resulting free
throws?
10. A4 has the ball at his disposal out-of-
bounds for a throw-in, when a fight-
ing situation occurs with members of
both teams being disqualified. Shall
play resume with an alternating pos-
session throw-in?
ANSWERS
1. No (12.3, 3rd bullet)
2. No (38.4.2)
3. No (25.2.1)
4. No (17.3.1)
5. Yes (8.5)
6. Yes (12.4.8)
7. No (31.3.2)
8. Yes (48.4, 2nd bullet)
9. No (37.2.3)
10. No (39.3.2)
Auriemma:
"USA needs to win gold
at FIBA World
one-on-one
Championship for Women"
WNBA coaching experience). It's some- and you say, "Ok. Now the season starts.
thing that I always wanted to do. I've done Let's see how we're going to do." At USA
a lot of things for USA Basketball over the Basketball, it's not about, 'Are we going
years. Obviously to have the chance to to qualify for the Olympics?' It's about,
coach the national team and to hopefully "Okay, when we get to the gold-medal
coach the Olympic team, those are the round, who are we going to play?" Is that
kind of things that every coach would fair or unfair? It's like Brazil in soccer in
want to do, especially for me since I've the World Cup. There are just certain
got some of my former players, who are countries where you win the gold or it's a
so prominent, to get an opportunity to get bad season. We know that going in.
back with them. It's just something that
you never think is going to happen. FIBA: That appears to be the attitude that
Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi, two of your
FIBA: For someone who has been coach- former players at UConn, have no matter
ing at UConn since 1985, you look to be in what team they play for. They expect to
good shape. Are you drinking from the win championships.
fountain of youth?
The United States were not competing at
AURIEMMA: No question, and that's one of
the EuroBasket Women in Latvia, but the AURIEMMA: (Smiles) It has been a lot of fun the reasons they have. You look at Diana
Americans were in the Baltics. New USA for me. Maybe when you are doing some- and she won three (NCAA titles) at Con-
coach Geno Auriemma and women’s na- thing that's a lot of fun, you tend not to necticut, Sue two. They have each been
tional team director Carol Callan have age. I've got a feeling that in the next on two gold-medal winning teams in Ath-
been in the Arena Riga watching games three years, I'm going to age a lot. ens, and in Beijing. It follows them around
and getting a feel for some of the players
because that's who they are. But there
the Americans will go up against at the FIBA: How is it that you have yet to be- are other players on the team that are
2010 FIBA World Championship for Wom- come the Governor of Connecticut, con- used to winning as well. I think Tamika
en. Auriemma earlier this year won his sidering all your success at UConn? Catchings is one of the all-time great win-
sixth NCAA title with the University of
ners, and certainly Candace Parker has
Connecticut women’s team. It’s a job he AURIEMMA: (Smiles) I've got a better job had tremendous success. When you see
has held since 1985. Six times Auriemma than the Governor
has been named as the Naismith Coach of Connecticut so I
of the Year. don't know that I
He knows that coaching international want to take a step
basketball in the summers through the down.
2012 Olympics will present a whole new
set of challenges. Auriemma gave this FIBA: Is it fair to say
interview to Jeff Taylor in Riga for FIBA. there's only one re-
com. sult that is accept-
able for the USA
FIBA: Geno, we watched your press con- women - winning
ference in April after USA Basketball gold medals at ev-
named you as the coach of their women’s ery tournament.
basketball team. Tell us again what this
appointment means to you? AURIEMMA: Yes, just
like at Connecticut.
AURIEMMA: It's hard to put into words. I That's how we ap-
thought this opportunity would never proach things.
come once it went to the WNBA format That's the bar
(USA Basketball changed its rules which we've set. You get
previously stipulated the coach needed to the Final Four
page 44 | 39 2009 | Fiba Assist Magazine
kids like that, all of a sudden you under- en. What do you think about them? enced. They understand the subtleties of
stand why they play the way they do. It's the game. And that makes for a very inter-
because they're winners. AURIEMMA: It's much different to what we esting game. It's not always about who
see in the States. That's why it's good to has the most talent because you've got a
FIBA: This week in Latvia at the EuroBas- come out here and see it. The main differ- lot of clever players out there who can
ket Women, you have spent a few days ence is that they (Europeans) are players compensate for whatever they don't have.
watching some teams you may face at the that are much older, not 18-, 19-, 20-year- So I'm looking forward to it. My three days
2010 FIBA World Championship for Wom- old players. They're older, more experi- here have been great.
Lebanon Coach
wants ticket to Turkey
Dragan Raca is back at the helm of the RACA: We haven't decided on who will
Lebanese National Team. Having lost to make the cut. Yes, we have sounded out
Iran in the final of the FIBA Asia Champi- a couple of players, because we want to
onship two years ago in Tokushima - thus take the strongest possible Lebanese
according to many experts "blowing team to Tianjin. But as for who exactly
away Lebanon's best possible chance to will make the team is not finalized yet.
qualify for the Olympics" - one would
have expected Dragan Raca to come up FIBA: What exactly is Fadi El Khatib's role
with words like “revenge, vengeance in the team now? What is his impact on
etc.” But the 38-year-old was as equani- the team?
mous as ever while assessing Lebanon's
chances at the 25th FIBA Asia Champion- RACA: Fadi, like Joe, is one of the players
ship, scheduled to be held in Tianjin (Chi- with great influence on basketball in Leb-
na) from Aug 6-16. FIBA's reporter S. anon itself. He is the captain of
Mageshwaran spoke with the Greek-Cy- the team and the leader as well. I
priot coach in an exclusive interview expect him to lead from the front
who named a ticket to the 2010 FIBA in our plans.
World Championship as his primary goal More importantly, I expect him to
for Tianjin. set an example for the young
players who have joined the NT
FIBA: Lebanon have finished second on this year.
three occasions at the FIBA Asia Champi-
onship, but you have never won the title. FIBA: Who do you think are the
How do you plan to break this jinx? major challengers to your cam-
paign at Tianjin?
RACA: We prepare our team to play good RACA: First of all, let's recognize what Joe
basketball. True, we haven't been able to did for Lebanese Basketball. On the face RACA: You can't really pick like that in a
transform that into winning a FIBA Asia of it, he added size. But, then his pres- Championship like this. All the teams that
Championship, but then we have lost to ence also added overall solidity to the enter the final eight will be as good as the
very good teams in the final on all the team on the court. So, overall his contri- other capable of beating each other on
three occasions. From a personal experi- bution was to shift the basketball to a their day. The competition will be so close
ence, I can you tell that when we lost to higher level and helped Lebanon in quali- that only on the game day, you can have
Iran in the Tokushima final two years ago, fying for two FIBA World Championships. some expectations.
we were defeated by a very inspired team As for Vroman, this player has good skill,
that was running very high on energy and is a very hard working player and is a very FIBA: Finally, what do you think of the
enthusiasm. Our target in Tianjin is to good character. I am expecting that he is draw? What do you think of the new for-
qualify for the 2010 FIBA World Champi- going to help the team a lot. But, there is mat for the Championship?
onship in Turkey. That is the main focus no comparison between Joe and Vroman,
right now. If things go well, we will look at because they are two entirely different RACA: I guess it's OK. All we have to do is
the next step. players - not to forget there are a lot of to play ball. More games means less risk
expectations on Vroman, which I'm sure and better chance for better teams to
FIBA: Lebanon have recently naturalized he is capable of delivering. win.
(former New Orleans Hornets power for-
ward) Jackson Vroman. Is this a move to fill FIBA: Can you tell us more about the Leba-
the gap left by Joseph Vogel? Is Jackson the nese players from the US, who will play in
China? FIND MORE INTERVIEWS ON WWW.FIBA.COM
right replacement? What are your thoughts?
Fiba Assist Magazine | 39 2009 | Page 45
news
the world
in brief
Planet
basketball
team will play well enough this summer to
qualify for the 2010 FIBA World Champion-
ship for Women in the Czech Republic.
Bassul discovered that his side will face
Canada, Puerto Rico and the Dominican
Republic in Group A of the FIBA Americas
Championship for Women after the draw
was held.
That competition will be held in Cuiabá,
Brazil, from September 23-27, and Brazil
will need a top-three finish to earn a trip to ALEX NWORA REPLACES LAZARE ADINGONO
the Czech Republic next summer. Mr. Alex Nwora has been appointed on
"Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic Saturday 04th July 2009 as Cape Verde's
have players that play in the NCAA," Bassul national coach. He replaces Mr. Lazare
said. Adingono, who is unavailable. The newly
"They are teams with plenty of influence of appointed head coach met his players who
American basketball and are generally well are camping in Praia (Cape Verde).
founded. Mr. Alex Nwora will have to lead the Cape
HOUSTON ABOUT TO END ANDERSEN'S Canada is a team with tradition, which al- Verde's team to another podium's spot at
LONG WAIT FOR NBA ways has tough games with Brazil. the Afrobasket 2009 as the team grabbed
When David Andersen arrives in Turkey We'll have to wait and see if they are able the Bronze medal at the Afrobasket 2007
with Australia next summer for the 2010 FI- to have center (Tammy) Sutton-Brown, who played in Angola. Ahead the 25th FIBA Af-
BA World Championship, he will do so as is with the Indiana Fever (WNBA) and is an rica Nations Championship for men, the
an NBA player. One of the best players in excellent reinforcement in the squad." team will have two camps in Praia. Cape
European basketball who this season Here are the complete results of the draw: Verde's team will jet out to the FIBA Africa
helped Barcelona capture the ACB crown, Group A: Brazil, Canada, Puerto Rico, Do- Championship in Libya on 2nd August 2009.
the 29-year-old Andersen is set for a move minican Republic. Cape Verde as head of Group D will fight
to the Houston Rockets after the Western Group B: Argentina, Chile, Cuba, Venezue- against Rwanda, Morocco and Tunisia in
Conference club acquired his rights from la. the preliminary round of Afrobasket 2009.
the Atlanta Hawks. "Our first goal is for the World Champion-
“I’ve spoken with the coach and the gener- ship qualification. Then, we go to the sec- COACH K TO RETAIN TEAM USA
al manager (Daryl Morey) and they’re all ond goal, which is the title of the REINS FOR 2010
excited about me coming in and this is why competition," said Bassul. The Boston Globe has claimed “two sourc-
the main deal was done, so things are go- The United States, as Olympic gold medal- es close to the situation” have confirmed
ing ahead and they’re just sorting out the ists, and the Czech Republic, as host, quali- that coach Krzyzewski announced that he
particulars of the contract,” Andersen said fied automatically for the FIBA World will lead the team next year in Turkey and
to Basketball Australia. “I should get some- Championship for Women that will be at the London 2012 Olympics.
thing signed and sealed soon in the next played from 23 September to 3 October Mike Krzyzewski guided the United States
few days.” Andersen will be giving up a lot 2010. to the top of the podium at the Olympics
to leave Europe, and especially the beauti- last summer in Beijing and is now ready to
ful city of Barcelona. He says it’s worth it. lead the team in its quest for a gold medal
“I’ve had a great time in Europe and played at the 2010 FIBA World Championship.
with some of the best clubs around there, Krzyzewski took the helm before the 2006
so it’s been really good, and now I’m going FIBA World Championship and guided the
to try to take on the challenge of playing in Americans to a bronze medal, with the only
the NBA.” setback coming in a 101-95 defeat to
Greece in the Semi-Finals.
BASSUL CONSIDERS ROAD TO CZECH REPUBLIC The USA responded with back-to-back ti-
AFTER DRAW tle-winning summers at the 2007 FIBA
Brazil coach Paulo Bassul is optimistic his Americas Championship and at last year's
page 46 | 39 2009 | Fiba Assist Magazine
sports and in particular basketball. We be- formed taking into consideration the opti-
lieve that this will help grow our sport in a mum conditions that would allow athletes
new and emerging market in Turkey.” to work out in a comfortable environment.
The decision was backed by FIBA. FIBA Furthermore, the facility will have six locker
Secretary General Patrick Baumann notes rooms complying with the recent stan-
that, “the FIBA Central Board decided that, dards, a modern fitness facility, an anti-
should there not be a fully approved and doping control center and all other
signed contract with regards to the con- necessary facilities.
struction works of the Antalya Arena by
15th July 2009, the venue would be moved USA WINS FIBA U19 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
to the city of Kayseri. The ninth FIBA U19 World Championship
According to the report by the independent have been run and won, and the USA have
audit company, BG-Algoe, the construction claimed the gold medal for the first time
progress of the Antalya Arena would cre- since 1991. The US faced a tough battle in
ate a major risk. We are confident that the gold medal game, but survived a sec-
Kayseri will fulfil all requirements for such ond half comeback from Greece to record
a high-profile event. The decision will give an 88-80 victory, after leading 46-30 at half
adequate time to the organisers to get the time.
things done in terms of sponsorships, ticket It is the USA’s fourth triumph at the FIBA
Beijing Games. The announcement that sales, accommodation and transporta- U19 World Championship, while for Greece,
Krzyzewski is to remain in charge was tion.” their silver medal joins the gold they won in
made at a press conference before the 1995 in Athens, and the bronze they se-
start of the USA Basketball mini-camp that A World Class Facility to Host The Finals cured in Thessaloniki in 2003.
was run from July 22-25 in Las Vegas. At In the meanwhile, the Istanbul Olympic The USA and Greece were joined on the
the camp, young NBA stars auditioned for Dome that will host the Final Round, is be- podium by bronze medallist Croatia. Tour-
places in the national team. ing completed by the Turkish Basketball nament MVP Mario Delas scored 24 of his
Association in collaboration with the Istan- 28 points after half time as his team held off
TURKEY 2010: KAYSERI CONFIRMED bul Metropolitan Municipality. The venue, a desperate Australia, 87-81.
AS FOURTH VENUE which is being prepared to host an audi- Argentina celebrated claiming 5th place
The Local Organizing Committee of the 2010 ence of 15,500 spectators, is expected to enthusiastically with their supporters, after
FIBA World Championship and FIBA have come into service in the first quarter of extending an 11-point half time lead to de-
jointly announced that the city of Kayseri 2010. Renovation works include construc- feat Puerto Rico, 92-70
has been confirmed as the fourth venue to tion of 22 suites, each with different speci- In the final day’s first game, Canada proved
host the world’s most important basketball too good for France, taking 7th position
event in 2010. Ankara, Istanbul and lzmir with a 82-74 win.
will host the other preliminary round groups So the 2009 FIBA U19 World Championship
of 6 teams each. in Auckland, New Zealand has come to an
Kayseri will replace the city of Antalya, as end, with the USA, Greece and USA the
it failed to guarantee the construction of a medallists. As a confederation, the Ameri-
new arena within the given deadline. The cas were the big winners with four teams
2010 FIBA World Championship will be in the top 7.
played from 28th August to 12th September
2010. Turgay Demirel, President of the Turk-
ish Basketball Federation, stated: “We be- fications, a VIP stand with a capacity of
lieve that Kayseri will be an excellent venue 2,000 seats, catering halls, lobbies and ex-
as it offers excellent facilities such as a hibition halls that will be serving simulta-
brand new arena, an international airport neously. In addition, a press stand hosting
and several five-star hotels. 750 journalists and equipped with closed
We have tried everything possible, in coop- circuit TV broadcast systems, statistics
eration with the municipality of Antalya and systems and wireless broadband internet
the government of Turkey, to find a solution. connection, will be made available for the
However, we now have decided in favour journalists.
of Kayseri, a city committed to promote Also, the complex will have an office that
could serve 500 journalists and a meeting-
conference hall hosting 300 journalists.
While the technical infrastructure of the
facility is designed to provide a comfort-
able environment for supporters and jour-
nalists, it is also being rebuilt to maximize
the viewers’ pleasure.
The Olympic Dome, equipped to host high
profile shows and exhibitions, will be fur-
nished with four LED screens and instant
lighting systems. Renovation is being per-
Fiba Assist Magazine | 39 2009 | Page 47
dddd
news
The tournament returns in 2011, and if it two Olympics, made a loud entrance to in-
has the drama, skill, speed and athleticism ternational basketball with a second-place
of this championship, basketball fans are finish in Egypt 26 years ago.
once again in for a treat. Egypt will attempt to roll back the years to
the early sixties when they used to be one
Final Standings: of the leading sides in Africa. Mali’s men
Rank Country GP W-L will hope to steal some of the headlines of
1. USA 9 9-0 the women’s team, which won the African
2. Greece 9 6-3 title last time out and played at the Olym-
3. Croatia 9 7-2 pics.
4. Australia 9 7-2 In Group C are Cameroon – the silver med-
5. Argentina 9 5-4 three of the Asia Championship (August alists two years ago who impressed at last
6. Puerto Rico 9 5-4 6-16) they are hosting in Tianjin City to qual- year’s FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament
7. Canada 9 4-5 ify for the 2010 FIBA World Championship in Athens. They are in the same pool with
8. France 9 3-6 in Turkey, beat the Australians 84-78 and five-time winners Senegal, Congo and Cen-
9. Lithuania 8 5-3 74-61. tral Africa Republic.
10. Spain 8 4-4 New head coach Guo Shiqiang of China In Group D are Morocco, Tunisia, Rwanda
11. Egypt 8 2-6 was buzzing after the second victory. "It's a and last the surprise bronze-medal winners
12. Kazakhstan 8 1-7 win of defense," said coach Guo. "We knew last time out, Cape Verde.
13. New Zealand 5 2-3 them better after the first game and played
14. Angola 5 1-4 much better defense, especially in the first GASOL CONFIRMS HE WILL PLAY
15. Iran 5 1-4 half." AT EUROBASKET
16. Syria 5 0-5 Without centers Yao Ming and Yi Jianlian, A basketball nation breathed a sigh of relief
Liaoning youngster Li Xiaoxu is getting a on Friday afternoon when Spanish basket-
chance to play and he’s making the most of ball great Pau Gasol announced he will play
MEDITERRANEAN GOLD FOR CROATIA AFTER the opportunity. Li had nine points and four for the national team at the EuroBasket in
WIN OVER GREECE rebounds in the first win, 13 and nine in the September.
Croatia captured the Mediterranean second.
Games gold medal with an 82-70 triumph
over Greece in Pescara. Josip Vrankovic’s LIBYA 2009 AFROBASKET
team sealed the triumph by outscoring the Host nation Libya have been drawn in
Greeks 16-9 in the final quarter. Group A of the Afrobasket with power-
Damir Rancic drilled five three-balls and houses Nigeria. Libya, the seeded team in
finished with 20 points for the winners, who the group as hosts, also face the stiff chal-
also got 13 points and 11 rebounds from lenge of Ivory Coast and South Africa in the
Ante Tomic. Both Rancic and Tomic are in same group.
Croatia’s preliminary squad for the Eu- In the draw that took place in Sabratha,
roBasket. Libya, Kevin Mckenberry’s team discovered
Dimitrios Mavroeidis led a balanced they will open their tournament against
Greece attack with 15 points. South Africa on August 5 in Benghazi while
In the bronze-medal game, Turkey stormed Nigeria will slug it out with two-time cham-
to a big early lead and thumped Italy 88-71. pions Ivory Coast in a repeat of the FIBA
Alaeddin Yakan’s side had a 32-17 advan- Africa Zone-3 qualifiers.
tage by the end of the first quarter and ex- The Nigerians, who played at the 2006 FIBA
tended that to 52-27 by half-time. There World Championship, are led by former
was no way back for the Italians, who end- NBA star and coach, John Lucas.
ed the tournament they hosted in dismal The top three teams in each group will
fashion. qualify for the second round.
Engin Atsur, one of the Turks’ standout per- In Group B, Egypt, Mali and Mozambique
formers at the 2006 FIBA World Champion- will have their hands full when they go up
ship in Japan when they reached the against defending champions Angola, nine- Following talks with his NBA club, the Los
Quarter-Finals, poured in a game-high 25 time winners of the Afrobasket. The Ango- Angeles Lakers, the FEB and new coach
points with Hakan Demirel contributing 20. lans, Africa’s representatives at the last Sergio Scariolo, Gasol told everyone who
Atsur was three of five from long range had assembled in Alicante what they want-
while as a team, Turkey were nine of 16. ed to hear. "We needed to have talks with
Turkey had beaten Italy in triple overtime the FEB, and after talking to Jose Luis
earlier in the competition. (Saez) and tying down certain issues, moti-
vated by my desire and everyone else’s to
CHINA BEATS AUSTRALIA TWICE achieve the medal that we still need to get,
China swept Australia 2-0 in a couple of I will play at the EuroBasket,” Gasol said. "I
friendly games this week as they stepped think we have the mentality to be champi-
up their preparations for the FIBA Asia ons and play with that pressure. And that is
Championship. good. The season has gone very well for
The Chinese, who need to finish in the top me and I want to defend our country."
page 48 | 39 2009 | Fiba Assist Magazine
Gasol, the MVP of the 2006 FIBA World formed over the past two days, indicate
Championship, turns 29 this week. He cap- that the hairline fracture has not responded
tured his first NBA title last month as a to the degree that we expected,” said
member of a very talented Lakers squad. Houston's team physician, Dr Tom Clanton.
Spain will need to finish in the top six at the “We will review a variety of treatment op-
EuroBasket to reach the 2010 FIBA World tions before proceeding.”
Championship in Turkey (the top seven if Yao, who is back home in China, is remain-
Turkey are a top-six side). The aim is to win ing positive. "I think I've been in harder situ-
gold, though. ations before, much harder than this one,"
Friday’s occasion was made even impor- he said. "I believe that I can get through this
tant by the presence of Spain’s Secretary Barbara Wheadon from New Zealand. one, too."
of Sport, Jaime Lissavetzky, who sat beside As a consequence of this election, Bob El- Yao will not play for China this summer
Gasol while he made his announcement. phinston will also remain a member of the when they host the FIBA Asia Champion-
Lissavetzky played an important role for FIBA Central Board for the period 2010- ship. The national team is hoping he will be
Spain’s successful bid to host the 2014 FIBA 2014. He had already served one term as fully fit next summer to play at the 2010 FI-
World Championship back in May. President of FIBA Oceania in the period BA World Championship in Turkey, if the
2002-2006 before he took over the FIBA country qualifies for the event.
CHENNAI TO HOST FIBA ASIA Presidency for the 2006 – 2010 term of of-
CHAMPIONSHIP FOR WOMEN fice. TURKOGLU TOPS OF THE LIST FOR TURKEY
The FIBA Asia Executive John Maddock from Australia, John Galla- Hedo Turkoglu, who recently signed with
Committee decided to her from New Zealand, Bill Keldermans the Toronto Raptors, enjoyed his finest sea-
award the hosting of the from Palau, Michael White from the North- son in the NBA this year with the Orlando
23rd FIBA Asia Champi- ern Mariana Islands and Robert Vautrin Magic, helping them make it all the way to
onship for Women to from New Caledonia have also been reap- the Finals.
Chennai, the Southern pointed unopposed to the FIBA Oceania Now the 30-year-old has turned his atten-
coastal city in India. The Management Committee for 2010-2014. tion to Turkey’s national team, with the star
Championship will be forward among the 17 players named in
played from Sept 17-24, YAO’S BROKEN FOOT NOT HEALING SO FAR Bogdan Tanjevic’s preliminary squad for
2009. The hairline fracture in China national team the EuroBasket – Europe’s qualifying tour-
It may be recalled the Championship was center Yao Ming's left foot has not healed nament for the 2010 FIBA World Champion-
originally scheduled to be played in Chi- yet, the Houston Rockets have revealed. ship. As next year’s big event will be staged
nese Taipei from June 21-28, before CTBA The club says there is no timetable to re- in Turkey, Turkoglu and Co. already have a
expressed their inability to host the Cham- turn for Yao. spot in the tournament as hosts.
pionship. The 23rd FIBA Asia Championship Yao felt pain in the foot during a May 8 play- They will therefore use the EuroBasket in
for Women will feature 12 teams - divided off defeat to the Los Angeles Lakers and x- Poland as a warm-up for 2010 and no doubt
into two levels. The top three teams from rays showed shortly after that he had a go for a medal to build some momentum.
Level I of the Championship will book their broken foot. Doctors decided the best Former NBA champion Mehmet Okur, who
berth to the 2010 FIBA World Championship course of treatment at the time was for Yao plays for the Utah Jazz and represented
for Women scheduled to be held in Czech to stop all physical training and to use a Turkey two years ago at the EuroBasket in
Republic from Sept 23 to Oct 3, 2010. walking boot to immobilize the foot and Spain, has not been included in the sum-
This will be the first time India will host the promote healing. “Yao is not experiencing mer’s squad.
FIBA Asia Championship for Women. "Nat- any pain in his left foot, however, the re-
urally, we are all excited about hosting the sults from the CT and bone scans we per-
event," said Harish Sharma, Secretary Gen-
eral of the Basketball Federation of India.
"The Indian women's team has shown
some notable progress in the last couple of
years, including entering the elite Level I in
the last tournament in Incheon in 2007. We
hope they show an even more improved
performance at home," he added.
THE ODD -
THE FUNNY -
Off-the-court
THE UNUSUAL
Special-Care Foundation. "It's a cartoon of and Hong Kong actor-singer Leon Lai are
many Chinese culture aspects," the 7ft 6in also in the movie. Yao is no stranger to the
Yao said in a Xinhuanet story. "It reminded studio. He once played himself in an epi-
me of the good memory of the old China- sode of the Simpsons.
made cartoons like Brothers Cucurbit and
Making Havoc in Heaven." Yao, who held a CURIOSITIES:
press conference, poked fun at himself DID YOU KNOW?
when discussing his part in the movie. "I ▼ In 1894 Dr. Nai-
hope the audiences recognize my voice in smith, the in-
the, though my voice is not beautiful," he ventor of the
said. Yao admitted after four hours of dub- game, asked
bing in Beijing that he needed a glass of A.G. Spalding
water. "I'm dying of thirst," he said. "I feel & Bros. to de-
like I've spoken for an entire day. And you velop the first
must do the dubbing with lots of emotion.” basketball. Be-
Taiwan supermodel-actress Lin Chi-ling fore that, the
sport of basketball was played with a
soccer ball.
▼ Carl Lewis, the 10-time Olympic med-
allist considered by many as the great-
OPALS GATHER AS BATKOVIC TIES THE KNOT est athlete of all time was drafted by
Suzy Batkovic has shared some of the the Chicago Bulls in the 1984 Draft with
happiest moments in her life wearing an the 208th overall pick. Of course Lewis
Australia uniform, so it's no surprise that a never put on the Bulls uniform, other
few Aussie teammates showed up at her way he would have ended up on the
wedding. Lauren Jackson and 2006 FIBA same roster with Jordan, Chicago's
World Championship MVP Penny Taylor, first pick that year.
along with former Opal Trisha Fallon, were ▼ Michael Jordan was drafted third in
maids of honor as Batkovic married Matt the 1984 Draft. Houston used their
Brown in Cronulla, New South Wales. Now number one pick to select Hakeem
going by the name of Suzy Batkovic- Olajuwon and won two championships
Brown, the Australia center who played with him. Portland had the second pick
professionally in Italy this year has other and selected... Sam Bowie.
aims. She wants to have a baby, and to ▼ Kobe Bryant was selected 14 by the
play for the Opals at the London Olympics Hornets and then traded him to the
in 2012. "As for having someone to babysit Lakers. Manu Ginobili was selected
while I'm playing, that's why you get mar- 57th, and Ben Wallace didn't even
ried - to have a husband to look after the made the draft and signed as a free
kids," she said in the Daily Telegraph. "I agent.
warned him before we married." ▼ Larry Brown broke a record in 2005-06.
No, his 23 victories weren't the worst
YAO LENDS VOICE TO CARTOON FILM in Knicks history, but he used an NBA
The deep voice of China’s 7ft 6in national record 42 different starting line-ups.
team center Yao Ming is hearded in the He started 16 different players and 29
Chinese-language cartoon film the Magic of those lineups were used only once.
Aster that was released on June 19. Yao, And you were wondering why his play-
who will play a leading role for China if ers weren't happy with him.
they qualify for the 2010 FIBA World Cham-
pionship in Turkey, has donated income
received from the film to the Shanghai Find more stories on www.fiba.com