Here is what Jose Manuel Calderon (he likes the three names when playing International) had to say on his website about the PR nightmare from the other day when the Spanish basketball team looked to be taking a shot at the Chinese.

I would like to say that the Chinese played a great game, if they are capable to play like this, they are going to go far. They were very aggressive on defense and on offense they were able to break us on 1 x 1 and they were assertive on their outside shots. They have high level players, not only Yao. I have to recognize that they surprised me. I did not think that they could pay at this level and if they do not go downhill after loosing two games (USA and Spain), they can aspire to go to the next round.

To play at home always gives you a special advantage and with the building packed with their fans, I am sure that that they are going to win many more games apart from today’s game; for sure, when the stadium is full and an exceptional environment in favor of China.

I would like to share a story with you about something that happened with the Spanish National Team that someone interpreted incorrectly. It happened in the photo session where the Spanish National Team was introduced; one of our sponsors asked us to pose with a “wink” to our participation in Beijing, we made an oriental expression with our eyes. We thought it was something appropriate and that it would always be interpreted as somewhat loving. Never the less some of the European media did not see it this way.

From here I would like to declare that we have a huge respect for the East and their people, some of my best friends in Toronto are from China and one of our Spanish National Team sponsors is the Chinese brand Li Ning. Anyone who would like to interpret this differently is absolutely confused.

So what do you think? PR damage control for a total mix up or was there some definite shots being taken by the Spanish?

By the way did you see Pau Gasol’s idea to piss off the Germans?

Popularity: 1% [?]

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!