MEX - Gutierrez tries to gain spot with Nets

BROOKLYN (NBA/FIBA Basketball World Cup) - Jorge Gutierrez not only helped Mexico this summer qualify for the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup in Spain, but also enhanced his career prospects.

A native of Chihuahua, Mexico, the 1.90m playmaker who averaged 9.6 points, 4.2 rebounds and 2.3 assists at the 2013 FIBA Americas Championship in Caracas, Venezuela, has signed a contract with the Brooklyn Nets and will be at their training camp with a view to making the team for the regular season.

Gutierrez is no stranger to basketball in the United States.

He competed in American college basketball for the University of California and was named the PAC-10 Player of the Year after his senior season with the Golden Bears.

Gutierrez was also the Defensive Player of the Year.

He played for the Canton Charge of the D-League last season.

In pulling many of the strings that allowed Mexico to capture the title for the first time at the FIBA Americas Championship, Gutierrez had solid performances against celebrated opponents.

In the very first game against Venezuela, Gutierrez scored 17 points and then against the Dominican Republic, he poured in 16, as well as grabbing six boards and handing out four assists.

Both were Mexican victories.

Then in the 76-70 victory over Argentina that put Mexico in the Final, Gutierrez had eight points, six rebounds, three assists and two steals.

Mexico's Gustavo Ayon, the MVP of the FIBA Americas Championship, is currently on the books of the Atlanta Hawks.

FIBA