Panama preparations underway

PANAMA CITY (2015 FIBA Americas Championship) - Panama are hoping to have another strong tournament when they compete at the FIBA Americas Championship this year in Mexico City.

Because of a suspension of the federation in 2013, the Panamanians were not allowed to take up their spot at the continental championship in Venezuela but after having the ban lifted, Panama came in fifth at last year's Centrobasket.

They then raised eyebrows with a run to the Final of the Central American and Caribbean Games in Mexico.

Their second-place finish has filled everyone with confidence.

But to have that type of success again, coach David Rosario has stressed the need for Panama to have an unselfish group of players who accept their roles.

The group of the Central American Games was a special group because apart from training well, the group got along very well - Rosario

"Sometimes people have the perception that it only takes 12 names but the chemistry of a team is very important, how players get along on and off the court," Rosario said.

"Players accept roles and responsibilities and those on the bench support those that are starting...

"That's a dynamic that gives you the chance to play well and gives you victories.

"We achieved that at the [Central American and Caribbean] Games."

At the FIBA Americas Championship, which tips off on 31 August, Panama will face Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Brazil and Uruguay in Group A.

The two sides that reach the Final will clinch places in the Rio de Janeiro Games while the teams that end up in third, fourth and fifth place will receive invitations to the 2016 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

Panama are having training sessions this week at the Roberto Duran Arena.

The Panama Basketball Federation (FEPABA) and Rosario, meanwhile, have placed an emphasis on having the country's up-and-coming players take part in the training camps.

The likelihood is that Panama will take a veteran squad to Mexico City but a youngster or two could end up contending for a place in the team, or serve as a replacement for an injured player.

The preparations will also serve them well as they get ready for youth tournaments this summer.

"We've had a group of young players that are unlikely to be on the team, but they are getting to know what we do and we're are giving them attention as they are future candidates," Rosario said.

Go to fiba.com/Americas2015 for complete coverage of the 2015 FIBA Americas Championship.

FIBA