GER - China and Korea complete field for FIBA U17 WCFM in Hamburg

HAMBURG (FIBA U17 World Championship 2010) - China and Korea booked their tickets to the FIBA U17World Championship from July 2nd to July 11th, 2010 in Hamburg. China won the semi-finals against the Philippines with 85:66 and remains unbeaten while Korea secured their spot in Hamburg with a close 82:81 win against Iran. China was led by Ju Mingxin (18 points), Zhai Xiaochuan (15), Wang Zirui (13), and Guo Ailun (11), while for Korea; five players (Jonghyun Lee 19, Hyosub Shin 14, Seungwook Choi 13, Changjin Choi 12, and Dongyeop Lee 12) were in double-figures. The two teams now battle for FIBA Asia's crown.

U17 Head Coach Frank Menz (picture) is looking forward to the two Asia representatives. "China and Korea are two great teams that perform a very fast way. As most Asian teams, I expect them to be very quick, with good ball handling skills and thus hard to play." Menz and his team have already played an Asian team in the beginning of this year. They won against Japan 87:84 in Chemnitz. "Japan had very good shooters in their team and it was tricky for our big men to play against the versatile Asian players", Menz remembers.

For the audience in Hamburg, Menz promises great and diverse Basketball performances. "Out of the twelve teams that made it to Hamburg, fans and experts can expect many interesting things. The US team for instance will for sure underline it's athletic strength, Australia and Argentina are known for their great heart, I expect the Asian teams to be very quick and versatile, and not to forget the European teams that play on a high level concerning tactics and techniques."


Here is an overview of all participating nations:

FIBA Americas: USA, Argentina, Canada
FIBA Oceania: Australia
FIBA Europe: Spain, Lithuania, Serbia, Poland and host Germany
FIBA Africa: Egypt
FIBA Asia: China and Korea

For more information on the teams and on the FIBA U17 World Championship, visit the Event Website www.hamburg2010.fiba.com.