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Questions & Answers: David Blatt

What are the expectations for Russia in the FIBA World Championships?

Right now, we are still waiting to see if all the players that we expected will come and participate in the world championship. If our roster is full, I believe we can compete for the top five places. If not, then we will have to over achieve and we hope to make a good showing in the world championship.

Besides Ivory Coast, Group C’ of the FIBA World Championships features five experienced and almost equal squads. What will be the key for Russia to qualify?

That is correct, it s a very evenly matched group. We have to play good and competitive game from the first game until the last, because nothing will be decided early.

Will you be counting on the NBA star Andrei Kirilenko for the FIBA World Championships?

Obviously, he is one of the main players that can help to bring us to a higher level, and we hope very much that he will be able to do so. But all players are important.

How will the Love Cyprus Basketball Tournament help your team warm up for the FIBA World Championships?

Firstly it is a very high level tournament at an early stage, and will allow us to practice well and judge our abilities early. Secondly, the conditions of Cyprus and the organization of the tournament will be of high quality, and will allow us to work and improve in a good way.