BEIJING (China) - After a 52-year absence in the FIBA Basketball World Cup stage, Poland is ready to dance with the best the world of basketball has to offer.

Star swingman Mateusz Ponitka was all smiles during the photoshoot session of the Polish team before the competition starts and shared his thoughts regarding the World Cup.

"We're all excited. We can feel the spirit of the World Cup and it's been 52 years since Poland played in this stage so it's a big thing for us to be here in China," said the 6ft 6in (1.98m), shooting the guard. "We can't wait for tip-off against Venezuela on Saturday."

"I CANNOT EMPHASIZE HOW EXCITED WE ARE TO PLAY AT THE WORLD CUP."- Mateusz Ponitka

Despite their less than stellar preparation games performance that included losses to Germany (92-84), Czech Republic (96-86; 81-76) and Tunisia (75-64), the 26-year old believes they will be ready for battle in Beijing.

"There were ups and downs for us because we were testing a lot of new stuff, tactics, and schemes on the court. Everybody had different preparation and we have learned a lot in the last month. We will put it in use in the Group Phase," shared Ponitka who averaged 13.4 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists in the European Qualifiers.

Ponitka's name is already buzzing in the European professional basketball circuit although relatively not in the mainstream consciousness of world basketball; the Polish star is excited to show the world that he's got game.

"I am excited to show my skills, I am expecting a lot from myself and also from our team. We came here not for just a holiday or touristic recreation but to fight for wins and make our country proud," he said determinedly.

"At the end of the day though it doesn't matter who will step up, what matters if we win the games and go further in the tournament," he added.

Poland concluded their European Qualifier campaign with a 5-0 romp including crucial victories over Croatia and Italy to send a strong statement to the world that they indeed are deserving of their spot in the world stage.

"I cannot emphasize enough how excited we are to play! We will play against the hosts China which is going to be crazy because they will surely fill up the gym, to play against Venezuala and the Ivory Coast too. I believe everybody in our group can advance to the second round," Ponitka said.

"Fingers crossed we will advance but no matter what happens we will be fighting until the end with all our hearts and leave everything on the floor to win."

 FIBA