DOM – Horford wants to play in 2009 FIBA Americas Championship

SANTO DOMINGO (2009 FIBA Americas Championship) – Dominican center Al Horford said that he wants to play for the Dominican Republic in the 2009 FIBA Americas Championship to be played from August 26 to September 6 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The Atlanta Hawks player talked about his health in a press conference held at the Dominican Republic.

"I feel healthy and I am confident that I can play in the FIBA Americas Championship," said Horford.

During the NBA playoffs the Dominican star suffered an ankle injury and that is why he is not "100 percent sure" that he can play in the tournament who gives four berths for the 2010 FIBA World Championship.

"I have to wait for the clearance from my team and also the Dominican Federation has to get the insurance for the tournament."

The Dominican Republic is in Group B along with Argentina, Brazil, Cuba and Venezuela. Group A has Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands and Uruguay.

"It is going to be a very competitive tournament. I have all the desire in the World to represent my country," Horford said about the tournament.

In the NBA regular season he averaged 11.5 points and 9.3 rebounds with the Hawks.

FIBA Americas