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July 2016
Puerto Rico's Galindo bets on Centrobasket title for OQT preparation
19/06/2016
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Puerto Rico's Galindo bets on Centrobasket title for OQT preparation

PANAMA (FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament) - Puerto Rico has the sole objective of returning to the Olympic Games and for that they want a national team without absences, with the best players available. That’s why for this year they announced the return of several important players.

Among those returning to the national team is forward Alex Galindo, who had his last participation with the team at the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

"It’s a big responsibility when you put on your country’s jersey and this summer will be no different. The country needs positive things and whenever we play, fans come together to support us. That leads to extra pressure, but with pride.” - Galindo

After completing a good regular season, where he averaged 17.6 points, 4.5 rebounds and 39% in three-pointers for the Indios de Mayaguez, Galindo will make his return to the national team.

"It's always an honor to represent your country and it is even more rewarding to be part of the national team program. Personally nothing changes. Last year I decided not to be with the team to work in other areas of my game. I'm flattered that they have considered me to be part of the team again. I always go with the mindset of helping as much of possible to achieve victories," said Galindo.

In this 2016, Puerto Rico is expected to be more powerful, with the returns of important players like Carlos Arroyo, Peter John Ramos and Ricky Sanchez.


"Important names in Puerto Rico’s basketball are interested in being part of the team and that is a step forward for Puerto Rico. It also demonstrates that we want to do well and achieve the goals we have for this summer," said the forward.

In this year’s calendar the first commitment for the Puerto Ricans will be the Centrobasket of Panama, where the team led by Eddie Casiano will look to have a good performance to later on address the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Serbia with high spirits.

"The Centrobasket is equal as or more important than the Olympic Qualifying Tournament. We have to defeat Mexico and the Dominican Republic, who have dominated this region in recent years. We must return to be champions of the region. If we win the region, then we can think about gaining the ticket to the Olympics."

In recent years, Puerto Rico has had a few performances below the expectations. This may add more pressure to the team.

"It’s a big responsibility when you put on your country’s jersey and this summer will be no different. The country needs positive things and whenever we play, fans come together to support us. That leads to extra pressure, but with pride. A title will give our people the joy that at this time they need," said Galindo.

At Belgrade’s OQT, Puerto Rico will face Serbia, and Angola, in their preliminary group and could later go-up against Czech Republic, Latvia and Japan in the second round, which seems a difficult test for a country that wants to get the only ticket available for the Olympic Games.

"At this level every group is difficult. Quality is at the highest point and we are going with the mentality of achieving the qualification. Serbia, on paper, looks stronger, but there will be no small enemy. The first game is important because we go against the host. A good performance there would give us strength to go to the next round. The second round turns into a no man's land and anything can happen," said Galindo.

FIBA