BRA - Monsalve given opportunity that was too good to turn down

MADRID (FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament) - Newly-appointed boss Juan Manuel "Moncho" Monsalve took a 180-degree when he accepted an offer to coach Brazil.

A Spaniard who was put in charge of the South American giants at the weekend, Monsalve had planned on retiring this summer but when opportunity knocked, he changed his mind.

He will lead Brazil at the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

"I said some time ago that I would retire this summer but I've had an opportunity that I couldn't turn down," he said.

"I have seen Brazil play at the FIBA World Championship in Indianapolis and in Japan and in the Tournament of the Americas in Santo Domingo, in Puerto Rico, and recently in the Pre-Olympic tournament in Las Vegas. Hence, I have the knowledge...

"The Brazil Basketball Confederation have assured me that everyone is really eager to take part in the Pre-Olympic tournament."

Monsalve should have a hugely talented squad to work with, including stars in the NBA and in Europe.

It is unclear if Nene, who recently went on leave from the Denver Nuggets to have a tumor removed from a testicle, will be available.

"I hope Nene recovers soon," Monsalve said.

"Anderson Varejao didn't go to Las Vegas due to a contract dispute (with Cleveland)," Monsalve said.

"In the NBA we also have Leandro Barbosa and Marcus Vinicius. Here in Spain, I have Tiago Splitter and Marcelinho Huertas, at Maccabi Alex Garcia, JP Batista at Lietuvos and in Brazil there are three or four players who are very interesting.

"I think we have a lot of talent and if we know how to play as a team, we can do something great."

One of the challenges for Monsalve will be to convey his ideas to the players in a very short period of time.

"We will have three and a half weeks to prepare and arrive at the Pre-Olympic tournament in Greece in good form," he said.

"This is a thrilling challenge.

"I didn't get to go to an Olympic Games (as a player with Spain) due to injury but now I have another opportunity and this would be a great way to end my coaching career."

FIBA