BUENOS AIRES (2010 FIBA World Championship) - Argentina coach Sergio Hernandez is a father of twins and fully understands Manu Ginobili's decision not to represent the country this summer in international competition.

Ginobili, whom Hernandez calls “the best FIBA world player”, is in arguably the best form of his playing career with the San Antonio Spurs but he decided last week not to play for Argentina at the FIBA World Championship since his wife is due to give birth to twin boys in May.

The 32-year-old star says he intends to play for Argentina the following two summers at the FIBA Americas Championship and, if they qualify, at the London Olympics.

"As coach of the national team, I understand, support and thank Manu that he does not definitely end his adventure with the national team, something which would make a few in the NBA happy," Hernandez said.

"Manu will still be available to be called up in future tournaments.

"As father, incidentally of twins, I understand that he is going to experience something that never happens again in life. It's complex, and I understand that he wants to be with his wife.

"Obviously, the team will be affected. But now that's it and there's no turning back.

"We have to think of a team without him, try not to talk of Ginobili's absence, but talk of the presence of other players and think of building a strong team to be at the height of our level, which is what we want.

"We all want to win but those who have experienced a World Championship and the Olympics know how difficult that is."

Argentina are number one in the FIBA World Rankings but will be in a very tough Preliminary Round.

They must face Serbia, Australia, Germany, Angola and Jordan in Group A.

Nevertheless, with Luis Scola, Andres Nocioni, Pablo Prigioni, Carlos Delfino, Fabricio Oberto, Leo Gutierrez and others, they will be a force in Turkey.

"It would have been difficult with Manu to reach the Semi-Finals and without him, it will be all the more challenging because I believe he is the best FIBA World player,” Hernandez said.

"But that's it. Now we have to focus on the ones we have, and there are many and good.

"Once the World Championship is over, then we will wait for the next event to see Manu back in action.

"For the time being, Manu is another fan."

FIBA