VEN - Opportunity knocks for Vásquez and NT

NEW ORLEANS (FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament) - Greivis Vásquez wants to take responsibility and be the leader of Venezuela’s basketball team when his country hosts the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament (OQT).

The 25-year-old guard, who plays for the New Orleans Hornets, says the aim is not only to claim one of three qualifying places for the Summer Games in London but to also promote the sport in his homeland.

"Personally, I think I should be the leader and the objective is to qualify,” Vásquez said.

"I've had a chance to speak with some of my teammates in the Venezuela national team and with them, I share the same sentiment.

"We're full of hope and excited about playing in front of our fans and family.

"Néstor Colmenares, Héctor "Pepito" Romero and David Cubillán have told me they're motivated and can't wait to start the fight for the Olympic places.”

The OQT will be the most important basketball event ever held in Caracas.

"One thing I am convinced of is that whatever happens, the tournament will provide motivation for young basketball players and thus promote the development of sport in the country,” Vásquez said.

“I also hope that the event is able to inspire our government officials and motivate them to build courts that are not there, or fix up those in poor condition.”

The only time Venezuela have played at an Olympic Games was in Barcelona in 1992.

In the 12-team OQT, Venezuela will compete in Group B with Lithuania and Nigeria.

Should they finish in the top two, Vásquez and Co will take on Greece, Jordan or Puerto Rico in the Quarter-Finals.

The winners of the Quarter-Finals will advance to the last four and the two sides that prevail in the Semi-Finals will clinch spots in London.

The losers of the Semi-Finals will then play in the final game of the OQT and the winners will progress to London.

FIBA