VEN – “One on one” with Nestor Salazar, Team Venezuela’s mastermind

CARACAS (FIBA Americas Championship) – He’s known in Venezuela as “Mama Osa”, and is currently the person in charge of leading Venezuela’s National team to this year’s FIBA Americas Championship 2007 in Las Vegas, from August 22 to September 2. His name is Nestor Salazar, and this is what he told “One-on-one”.

His game philosphy is based on a good defense, running the court and playing collectively as a team. This philosophy has allowed him to be Team Venezuela’s Head Coach since 2003.

He’s a succesful coach in his native Venezuela, wherein he finished in second place with the Caracas Cocodrilos from the Professional Basketball League. In 2005, he won the Basketball National League with the Caracas Guerreros.


FA: What are your expectations facing the FIBA Americas Championship 2007 in Las Vegas?

We are currently in a renovation process, with a fresh start for a cycle in which our main objective is to reach the World Championship in Turkey 2010. With that in mind, we are betting on our youngsters, we understand that the tournament in Vegas will not be an easy beacuse it only offers two spots for the Olympics. Nontetheless, we will fight and try to reach the World Pre-Olympic qualifier, at least.

FA: What does it mean to play in a competition like this one, both as an individual and as a team?

Individually, I’m very proud because this will be my second Pre-Olympic. As a team, it is always a pleasure to be amongst the best, and that is why we will try to do our best.

FA: How do you foresee the future of the National Team?

We are beginning a new world competition’s cycle, and we have our minds set on a clear goal. We will keep on working with a talented team that has quick and young players. We are confident in our future

FA: What is your coaching philosophy facing this kind of competition?

Mi game philosophy hasn’t changed that much; lots of defense, quickness, and team game. For me, the most important part of the game is the mental aspect; just remember that for most of the players this is their first experience with the National team. With regards to the lack of tall players for the center position, we are planning on using quick and strong forwards, in order to level that up.

FA: Do you have any suggestions for improving the future of basketball?

We need to be able to work in a clycle-like structure, wherein one is able to work with the team all year long. Also, we need to keep investing on the youth, strengthening their game’s fundamentals while giving them a good physical training.

FA: Some words for your fans?

Be patience with our team. Within the next two years, you will be able to see the outcome. Our players are very talented, and will be giving their best effort to represent their country once they step into the court.

FVB & FIBA Americas