MADRID, Spain -- Iraq's new basketball federation was recognized by the
sport's ruling organization, which plans to provide the country with
equipment and technical support.
The International Basketball Federation said Monday it acted on a
recommendation by the International Olympic Committee and made the
decision at a weekend meeting.
Many Iraqi sports bodies collapsed along with Saddam Hussein's regime in
the U.S.-led war.
Iraq is not a basketball power but had an active federation under
Saddam. Iraqi players participated in international competitions and the
sport is increasingly popular in the country.
FIBA, the international federation, plans to send a team of experts to
Iraq. Iraq's basketball needs could range from equipment to advice on
rebuilding damaged sports buildings.
Once the sport's infrastructure has been rebuilt, FIBA will provide
non-Iraqi basketball coaches to develop talent, FIBA spokesman Florian
Wanninger said from Geneva. FIBA also will provide support to
Afghanistan and East Timor.
Earlier this year, world soccer's ruling body recognized a new Iraqi
soccer federation.
AP NEWS
The Associated Press News Service
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