ARG - Oberto wants continued Spurs role

BUENOS AIRES (NBA) - Argentinian centre Fabricio Oberto is calling on San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich to keep faith in him next season.

The 32-year-old, who won his first NBA title last season, is expected to struggle next season as his career enters its twilight.

But Oberto, who is well rested having missed the FIBA Americas Championship, believes he can prove people wrong.

He told Ole newspaper: "I'm in very good form, going step by step alongside the team.

"This year, resting was very good for me.

"However, I just stopped training for one week. I kept on running, doing gym or playing some basketball lightly."

The former Tau Ceramica centre hopes to play more of an attacking role. He added: "Maybe this season I can do it more. It's a process in which the coach and team-mates have to know you very well.

"You have to earn your team's confidence and it takes some time, especially at San Antonio.

"I want to be as regular as I can, not making mistakes, keeping intensity. Maybe it will be difficult to be at the top level each night because there are a lot of games per week."

By Matias Greco
FIBA