ESP - Spain players excited about Navarro's NBA move

BARCELONA (NBA) - Juan Carlos' Navarro's impending move to the United States has created another stir in Spain, a country which is quickly becoming Europe's chief exporter of talent to the NBA.

Winterthur Barcelona confirmed this week it had reached agreement on ending the Spanish international's contract, thus allowing him to move to the US where the Washington Wizards own his draft rights.

While Navarro is expected to sign an NBA contract, there is growing speculation in Spain that the Memphis Grizzlies will attempt to acquire his rights so Navarro can play alongside close friend and fellow Spanish international, Pau Gasol.

Toronto Raptors guard Jose Manuel Calderon, another Spain national team player, admitted on Thursday such a move would create an ideal situation for Navarro.

"It would be very important for him to be with Gasol in Memphis, because it would help him a lot in the first few months, which are the most difficult ones," Calderon said.

"For some time, he has had the level to play in the NBA.

"But that is not enough, you need a good team to come to you and that your current team, as is Navarro's case, let's you go."

Navarro had wanted to leave Barcelona before the 2006-07 campaign but the Catalans refused to lower the amount of his buyout.

Gasol, who also played for Barcelona before leaving for the NBA several years ago, had spoken openly of his wish that Navarro be freed by Barcelona.

"I don't know which team he will sign for, but all I would like to say is a thank you to Barcelona for allowing him to go," Gasol said.

Acquiring Navarro could make all the difference to Gasol, who has been mentioned in trade talks with different teams.

Gasol, with Navarro, would be a much happier player in Memphis.

"I want to remain outside this issue but of course, I would love to play with him," Gasol admitted.

Another Spain player, Jorge Garbajosa, had a terrific rookie campaign in Toronto with Calderon and he is excited about Navarro being allowed to leave for America.

"If he finally goes to an NBA team, I am certain he will be a winner because he's got enough quality to play in this league," Garbajosa said.

Jeff Taylor
FIBA