Team Guam not relying on luck in Vegas

LAS VEGAS – Usually what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. Not this time, Guam Men’s National team are ready to show off their talent to the rest of the world. This is evident in their recent trip to Las Vegas, Nevada for a 6-day training camp.

In preparation for FIBA’s new competition system, Team Guam are pulling out all stops to make sure they are ready to shine on the biggest stage.

“The new FIBA competition system is a dream come true for Team Guam,” said Guam Men’s Head Coach, EJ Calvo. “One of our biggest challenges have always been finding high-quality competition on a regular basis. Team Guam is focused on winning every game we get the opportunity to play against FIBA ranked opponents.”

FIBA’s new competition calendar will see team Guam play home and away games against Asian powerhouses like China and the Philippines. After their Pacific Games gold medal, Guam is ready to take the next step and are not taking this opportunity lightly.

The new competition system is still more than a year away but Guam is not satisfied to sit and wait.

“A list of 24 Team Guam players were invited to participate in this training camp, including some new prospects for competition in 2017 and beyond,” said Calvo. “15 players attended the camp in Las Vegas. This camp is focused on player development over the next 12-18 months leading into the FIBA Asia Division B World Cup Qualifiers.”

“The objective of the camp was to improve how we train both on the court as well as in the weight room. In addition, we continue to build synergy and enhance relationships with our players and coaches.”

“From this camp, we intend on naming 16 players to be considered for the 2017 competition system. Given our limited resources, it is important that we start working on raising funds and planning for travel now before 2017.”

Calvo aimed to create a challenging, professional environment to help prepare the team for the next level of competition.

“I've been working to find any opportunity possible to enhance our program, including reaching out to NBA and international basketball contacts who can help with our training, or simply meet with us to share some advice and inspiration,” said Calvo. “Head Coach of the NBA’s Portland Trailblazer, Terry Stotts, grew up in Guam during the 1970's and was gracious enough to meet with the team during our time in Las Vegas.”

“Several of our players also got a chance to train alongside some great players from around the world. We ended the camp with a great showing in an exhibition game against a Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) team. Guam was able to build confidence in the 60-49 point victory. We look forward to playing against other pro teams throughout Asia in the future to help us prepare for the competition in the region.”

This camp was such a success that Guam is looking to bolster their preparations with more in the future.

“Although we must overcome financial obstacles, we hope to conduct another training camp in late 2016, then again in mid-2017 in preparation for the new FIBA Asia-Oceania competition.”

FIBA