PUR – Ramos gives thumbs-up to Centrobasket

SAN JUAN (2010 FIBA World Championship) – Puerto Rico just got a lot taller for the Centrobasket Championship in the Dominican Republic.

Giant center Peter John Ramos has decided to make himself available for the event which tips off on July 5.

He has already joined the Puerto Ricans in practice.

"I wanted to rest a few days because I've been playing two straight years, but I'll play," said the 7ft 3in Ramos, who admitted he looked forward to joining up with his fellow national team players.

"This is a family and we always have a good time."

"Peter is an elite center and gives us more strength and offense in the position,” Puerto Rico coach Manolo Cintron said.

“His presence will force teams to sag and it gives us more space on the perimeter. With Peter, it is easier to play.”

Puerto Rico should be in good shape by the time the FIBA World Championship tips off in Turkey in late August.

They will take part in the Centrobasket Championship in the Dominican Republic from July 5-11, followed by the Caribbean Games in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, from July 24-31.

Once in Turkey, Puerto Rico will play in Group C.

They will have Preliminary Round games in Ankara against Greece, Russia, Ivory Coast, China and hosts FIBA World Championship hosts Turkey.

Because of the BSN play-offs, it’s unclear which players will take part in the Centrobasket.

FIBA