PUR - Santiago brings the feel-good factor

SAN JOSE (2011 FIBA Americas Championship) - Puerto Rico coach Flor Melendez knows there will be ups and downs for the team as it gets ready for the FIBA Americas Championship.

The loss of players, like center John Peter Ramos (hernia operation), is inevitable.

All national teams have to go into battle without key men every summer, which is why squad depth is crucial.

There have also been positive developments for the Puerto Ricans.

Veteran Daniel Santiago, whose importance has grown with the absence of Ramos, has begun training after taking a break following his title triumph in Puerto Rico's BSN league with Capitanes de Arecibo.

"I feel happy," Melendez said.

"He has been a player with the national team for 15 years and knows he can help the team a lot.

"All of the players and coaches are really delighted with his arrival."

Santiago, who joked that he needed time to celebrate the championship win, also said: "It's always difficult because we play all year long and sometimes we have to take time off.

"I'm 35 and I have to take care of the body. It's just a little time off, but I'm here to work hard and win."

Melendez says Santiago's arrival is not the only reason to be encouraged.

"We are more complete because besides Daniel, we received the news that Andres Rodriguez will begin training tomorrow (Wednesday).

"There are more talented players. Now all we need to wait for is to see how David Huertas is."

Huertas, one of the Puerto Rican sharpshooters, has a groin injury.

He will receive treatment until Sunday and doctors will then check his condition and see if he is able to resume training.

Exciting guard Denis Clemente wasn't able to finish Puerto Rico's latest practice after hurting his left hand.

He was seen with two fingers wrapped.

"Let's see what the tests reveal tomorrow (Wednesday)," Melendez said.

The FIBA Americas Championship tips off on August 30 in Mar del Plata, Argentina.

If Puerto Rico reach the Final, they will earn a trip to the London Games.

Otherwise, Puerto Rico can advance to the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament if they come in third, fourth or fifth.

FIBA