ARG - Sanchez tips Argentina to prosper

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MAR DEL PLATA (FIBA World Championship) - Argentina guard Juan Ignacio Sanchez believes his team can top even their Olympic gold medal of two years ago in this summer's FIBA World Championship.

Sanchez admitted a poor showing could taint the memory of their triumph in Athens, but backed his team to build on their past glory.

"This group is brave," he told La Nacion newspaper. "We are putting our previous glory on the line because we know we can go on at the top level.

"Nobody was obliged to come to the national team. We all have the initiative and it looks like these two years without playing international basketball have filled us with enthusiasm."

The Unicaja Malaga star, who helped his club to the ACB title this season, believes the team spirit is strong as a result of past achievements.

He said: "I think the big emotions we have been through in the national team make us want it more.

"It becomes a special feeling. We all play at different clubs in a colder, very professional way. The national team is different, because we all know each other by heart.

"We have a good environment in the squad and we play for the shirt.

"We've all missed this. It's a very special feeling. Besides, we know there are a lot of people following and supporting us.

"We've all grown up together. In 11 years, we have lived through a lot of things. We overcame several crises.

"Some players got married and had children, some others set up their businesses. I think experience and maturity are our most important strengths, even in the game."

The Olympic champions are currently training in Mar del Plata, ahead of Friday's friendly against Venezuela.

They will line up in FIBA World Championship Group A alongside reigning champions Serbia & Montenegro, France, Venezuela, Nigeria and Lebanon.

PA Sport