BRA - Rockets may have unearthed a gem

HOUSTON (NBA) - Scott Machado has left no doubt about his intentions when it comes to representing Brazil in the very near future.

Born in Queens, New York, to Brazilian parents, Machado has been making headlines in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo ever since he earned a spot on the roster of the Houston Rockets.

The 1.85m Machado, one of the outstanding point guards in American college basketball with the Iona Gaels, is an excellent ball-handler and passer.

He went undrafted out of college but convinced the Rockets of his huge potential with some dynamic displays for their Summer League team.

Though he has yet to broach the subject with his new club, he sees himself wearing the Brazilian shirt if selected.

"I have not talked about it since I signed with the Houston Rockets," he said to balanacesta.blogosfera.uol.com.br.

"But I am not worried.

"I have time to resolve the situation.

"I've already defended the country at the World University Games in 2011 and it was very nice.”

At the World University Games in China last year, Machado was exceptional.

He averaged 17.6 points per game in the Preliminary Round, helping the Brazilians win three of their five games, and then erupted for 30 while also handing out six assists in the Quarter-Finals against Turkey but his team lost, 92-84.

"In 2016, I want to be with Brazil and playing at the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro,” he said.

"It would be very exciting for me and my family."

The Rockets appear to have signed a very good player, one who will compete with Jeremy Lin every day in practice.

When asked to describe himself, Machado answered: “I'm a passer who loves to find the best shooter on the court.

“I am a leader, a passer and I love playing this game. It's my life.”

FIBA