Off Track ..... J.R. a Russian, OK?

Russia's basketball coach has come to the defense of his American-born guard Robert Holden after questions were raised about his right to represent the team. "Obviously, love of your country is one of the reasons to play in the Olympics," said David Blatt. "But above and beyond that is love of sport. J.R. has the opportunity to play for the Russian national team due to several years of service in the Russian basketball league," added Blatt, who is himself an Israeli.