CAN – Anthony is Canada’s new sensation

HAMILTON (FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament) – There is a real buzz around the Canadian national team just two weeks before Leo Rautins’ men attempt to qualify for the Beijing Games and Joel Anthony is a big reason why.

Rautins could barely contain his enthusiasm when asked about the 6ft 9in, 240lb Anthony after Monday’s 89-67 victory over Lebanon in the Jack Donohue International Classic. The Miami Heat center had nine points and nine rebounds against the Lebanese.

“Joel is a unique player,” Rautins said. “If you look at his body, he’s an athletic freak.

“I was even telling him yesterday that I can’t believe how amazed I am about the improvement in his game offensively.

“He always was a defensive presence and rebounder, but he’s put in a ton of work in his offensive game where now he’s got a consistent mid-range jump shot. He can go up with baby hooks either side (of the basket).”

Rautins says that Anthony, a native of Quebec, had the perfect environment to learn this season.

“And, you can tell that he’s been in a program under Pat Riley where he’s been taught extremely well,” Rautins said.

“He works, he goes to the right places. He’s also just a pleasure to be around. He’ll run through a wall.”

FIBA