BARUERI (2010 FIBA World Championship for Women) - The real work has begun for new Brazil coach Carlos Colinas as he attempts to mold the national team into a force ahead of the FIBA World Championship for Women.
The national team players had their medical exams at the end of last week and began training on Sunday.
Colinas, a Spaniard who guided his own country to gold at last year's U18 European Championship in Sweden, said after meeting with his Brazil team for the first time: "The reception was excellent.
"I already knew most of the players and all are excellent professionals.
"The motivation is in the entire group, both the veterans and in the younger ones.
"With this mixture, we are seeking a balanced team to win games this summer."
Brazil will travel to Slovakia in late July and play in friendly games against Pokey Chatman's side before meeting Hungary, Russia and Slovakia in an international tournament.
They will then return for the South American Championship from August 10-14, after which they will host Argentina, Cuba and Poland in a Super Four Tournament from September 2-4.
Brazil will go to France to face Mali on September 10-13.
In their final tune-up for the FIBA World Championship for Women in the Czech Republic, Brazil will play at an international tournament in Paris against the French, Argentina and Japan.
Colinas, meanwhile, who has been living in Sao Paulo, says he feels welcome in the country.
"Sao Paulo is a beautiful city," he said.
"The Brazilians are a very kind people that welcome everyone with kindness and affection.
"My wife also loves the new country where I live and I'm adapting pretty well."
FIBA
