Once the FIBA windows process is closed with the relocation of players and coaches to their respective destinations, the Dominican Basketball Federation (Fedombal) will begin the corresponding process for participation in the next World Cup with a single thought.
"The goal is the Olympics"expressed the president of the Fedombal, Rafael Uribe during his participation with Gerardo Suero in the Sports Actualidad space for the digital platforms of LISTÍN DIARIO.
And to make that elusive dream come true, no effort will be spared to integrate the pieces that are necessary.
He recalled that in the world past (China, 2019) the teams from Argentina (runner-up) and the United States (seventh place) qualified directly for the Olympic Games.
"The best two positions in America are classified, the two best in Europe, one in Asia and one in Oceania"explained the top executive of Dominican basketball.
He highlighted the work carried out by the Federation to unite efforts from all sectors of local basketball and that has resulted in qualifying for three consecutive World Cups.
"It has not been easy to qualify for three consecutive World Cups and in the last two go to the second round. Now there is no Slovenia, nor Turkey, nor Argentina, nor Nigeria, which is always at the Olympic Games"he added.
Chris Duarte, of the Indiana Pacers, has already secured his participation in the World Cup, which this time will have three countries as venues: Japan, the Philippines and Indonesia.
The possibility of integrating the other two NBA players -Al Horford and Karl-Anthony Towns- is pending, in addition to other talents that shine between the G-League and the NCAA such as Lester Quiñones, Justin Minaya, Joel Soriano, David Jones, among others.
KNOW MORE
Close in 2011.
On September 10, 2011, the Dominican Republic lost 83-76 to Brazil in the semifinal of the Pre-Olympic in Mar del Plata, which gave two tickets to London 2012. They won the bronze medal.
Closer still.
On July 8, 2012, with an 88-73 setback against Nigeria, the Dominican Republic failed again in the attempt to achieve the dream. Russia, Lithuania and Nigeria advanced in the playoffs in Venezuela.