By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
According to the “Philippine Star” Tatum said that the new FIBA qualifying system for the World Cup is a positive development in growing the international game. “Most countries in the world, prior to this system, never had the opportunity to see their national teams play on their own home turf,” he stated.
“They play exhibition games or warm-up games but not any games of real significance on their home court. The new qualification system allows fans to see their national team play in meaningful games at home, in their country. Even though some NBA players are not available because of conflicts in schedule, what it allows and forces national teams to do is to continue to develop more quality players. We’re seeing that those teams who have invested in developing more quality players are the teams that are doing well in the new qualification system and that now there’s a more level even playing field because it really is up to those national teams to develop a deep roster of talent to compete in the qualifiers.”