BRA - Moncho Monsalve optimistic after trip to the USA

RIO DE JANEIRO (National team) – Moncho Monsalve, head coach of the Brazilian National Team, spent a few days in the USA where he attended some NBA games and practices. The Spanish-born coach traveled to the USA in order to speak to the three Brazilians playing in the NBA: Leandro Barbosa (Phoenix Suns), Nenê Hilário (Denver Nuggets) and Anderson Varejão (Cleveland Cavaliers).

Monsalve felt himself very welcomed by all teams and players. According to the coach born in Spain (in Medina del Campo, Valladolid), Barbosa, Nenê and Varejão all expressed their strong commitment to joining the Brazilian National Team at the FIBA Americas Championship, the qualifier for the 2010 FIBA World Championship that will take place in August. “I had a wonderful conversation with all three players and I am sure that we can count on them in the National Team”, stated Moncho.

In addition, Monsalve is confident that Brazil will be in the next FIBA Word Championship: “Brazil has extraordinary players evolving in the NBA, Europe, the NCAA and the Brazilian National League (NBB). We can build a great team, capable of facing any opponent at the FIBA Americas Championship.”

Before traveling to the USA, the Brazilian National Team coach spoke to center Tiago Splitter in Madrid, where his team, TAU Cerámica, won the Spanish Copa del Rey.

Brazilian Basketball Confederation