Test event a good start for Argentina's Olympic Qualifying Tournament preparations

BUENOS AIRES (2016 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournaments) - It was never about the wins or losses for Argentina coach Cristian Santander at the Olympic Test Event that was staged earlier this month in Brazil.

Santander looks back on the trip to Rio de Janeiro as one that was a useful exercise. Argentina lost to Australia, who are No. 2 in the FIBA World Ranking Women, and to hosts Brazil. But they defeated Venezuela in a battle for third place.

The truth is that it was a very positive tour because we went from less to more ... it took a while to get started but once we settled, it ended well. So this whole experience ended up being a very positive thing. - Santander

Santander wanted to use the four-team competition at the Carioca Arena as preparation for the 2016 FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament (WOQT). Santander will be at the helm of Argentina when they compete at the WOQT in Nantes, France, 13-19 June.

It was a plus to be at the beginning of the (WOQT) preparation and to already play an event in the place where they are going to play the Olympic Games, with this type of rivals. I believe it has been very useful for us. - Santander

The coach was also happy with some of the young players that took part in the tour, players that will be key for Argentina in the very near future like Sofia Aispurua.

"It was a pleasant surprise," the coach said in an interview with basquetplus.com. "They were up to the standard."

In Tuesday's WOQT draw, Argentina were drawn into Group B, alongside Cameroon and Turkey.

Five berths for the Rio de Janeiro Games will be up for grabs at the 12-team event to be played in Nantes, France from 13-19 June.

FIBA