ARG - Scola: Stars must go to Beijing

BUENOS AIRES (2008 Beijing Olympics) - FIBA Americas Championship MVP Luis Scola believes Argentina coach Sergio Hernandez must summon the best players for the Beijing Olympic Games if they are to defend their title.

The Houston Rockets forward acknowledges the team that won a ticket to Beijing in Las Vegas proved their value, but also insists some players are irreplaceable.

"Argentina have to take the best squad possible and there can be no debate about that," said the 27-year-old.

Argentina stars Manu Ginobili, Luis Oberto, Pepe Sanchez, Walter Hermann and Andres Nocioni, among others, were absent in the silver medal-winning FIBA Americas Championship squad.

"Many of the boys who played the FIBA Americas Championship showed that they deserve a place and there are others that didn't take part in the squad but have an awesome talent and must be at the Olympics," added Scola.

"I repeat: there is no chance of a debate with this issue."

Scola believes the Argentina team ethic was the major factor behind their qualification for Beijing.

"We played as a team, and being united on and off the court gave us an advantage over some rivals," Scola said.

"In the critical moments the squad had an identity, knew how to play and what to do to win."

Gabriel Batalla
FIBA