MNT - Cook looking forward confidently for Montenegro

ALYTUS (EuroBasket 2011) - The opening day of EuroBasket 2011 was a big day for Montenegro, as the tournament in Lithuania marks the first time that the small Balkan country is participating in a major basketball event as an independent nation.

The Montenegrins made the most of their debut on the biggest stage in Europe by taking a hard-fought overtime victory against Macedonia to start their campaign on a high note.

Having comfortably made their way to EuroBasket through by finishing first in their qualifying group, Montenegro's appetite has been growing steadily.

Participating alone doesn't do much to satisfy the Montenegrins, as they are already thinking about advancing to the next round of EuroBasket, but are still sticking to a humble game-by-game approach, which has brought the team success so far.

"We're just taking it one game at the time now. We need to focus on the game ahead and qualify for the next round. Then we can think about higher goals, even the Olympics," said Montenegro's American-born starting point guard Omar Cook.

Cook has been a key figure in Montenegro's game and has contributed greatly to putting the country's name back on the European basketball map.

The solid playmaking by the 29-year-old player has allowed Montenegro to get the most out of the team's astounding frontcourt, which includes Minnesota Timberwolves big man Nikola Pekovic, as well as Nikola Vucevic, who was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2011 NBA Draft.

Cook thinks that there's plenty of space to improve the team's game, especially playing as a unit, and that's what Montenegro has been working on.

Despite feeling that Montenegro's group is stronger than the rest, Cook makes it clear that he thinks that his team can compete with any other country in the tournament.

"I think we can play against any team in the tournament, but our group is very tough, just because it's so even. Everyone can win every game, as the teams are very evenly matched. Other groups have some strong teams and some so-so teams and with our groups you really have to focus for every game," said Cook.

If they can indeed prove that they're capable of fighting against everyone, they might be living their dream in the London Olympics next year, as Cook thinks that sky is the limit for the young and talented Montenegrin team.

FIBA