Torres and Diaz to lead Venezuela's resurgence

Oscar Torres and Victor Diaz have taken it upon themselves to lead the way for Venezuela in what will be a very tough group stage.

Up and down Boomers getting closer

The Australian Boomers have continued the long climb up the World Championship mountain with a sixth place finish at the Stankovic Continental Champions Cup in Kanshun, China. Along the way, the team ranked ninth in the world put their supporters through a roller coaster ride in all three of its games.

Attitude not talent key to gold for U.S

Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James believes a change in attitude not talent will hold the key to a gold medal for the U.S. men's basketball team when the world championship tips off on Saturday.

Spain aim to avoid footballers' mistakes

Spain's basketball team are out to avoid the mistakes made by their footballing counterparts at the World Cup and are determined to live up to expectations when the world championship starts in Japan on Saturday.

Panama target second phase

Panama coach Guillermo Vecchio insists his side can reach the second stage of the FIBA World Championship.

Vukona surprised by Tall Blacks call

New Zealand's Mika Vukona had not counted on making the Tall Blacks` 12-man squad for the FIBA World Championship.

Lula sees benefit of China visit

Brazil coach Aluisio 'Lula' Ferreira is confident his team will shine at the FIBA World Championship despite losing to France in the bronze medal game at the Stankovic Cup.

Puerto Rico confident with new-look side

Guard Larry Ayuso insists Puerto Rico`s current crop of players can cause a stir at the FIBA world Championships - despite the absence of some of their more established names.

Julian cut from French squad

France coach Claude Bergeaud has consigned veteran center Cyril Julian to probable international retirement after excluding him from his 12-man squad for the FIBA World Championship.

Petro ready to take on Julian mantle

Johan Petro admitted feeling awkward displaying his delight at making the 12-man France squad for the FIBA World Championship.

Injured Arenas won't play in worlds

Washington Wizards guard Gilbert Arenas strained his groin during practice Monday and won't play for the United States at the world championships.

James & Co. visit U.S. troops before worlds