PLAYER NEWS: --G Leandro Barbosa is leading Brazil in scoring at over 20 points a game in the FIBA Americas championship and has helped his country qualify for the 2010 World Championships with six straight wins to open the tournament. Barbosa had 31 points on 11-of-16 shooting in a win over Canada. --G Steve Nash tried to get in a little exercise in disguise during his recent trip to China. Despite wearing goofy glasses and a bandana to hide his trademark locks, Nash was quickly recognized during a pickup game at a park. After removing his costume, Nash not only played basketball but a little soccer with fans at the park.
--F Louis Amundson has been working hard on his outside shooting this summer and the early word is that it has paid off. Amundson went from fan favorite to a full rotation player last season and should see plenty of playing time this year given his ability to run the floor and the Suns' shortage of big men inside.
DRAFT PICKS:
Earl Clark, F, 6-10, Louisville (first round) -- He's the kind of guy who can guard the hybrid forwards in this league. He's played in an up-tempo system in college (for Rick Pitino). He's got a good body makeup and there is an indication that he can improve offensively. The drawback has been his motor and his attention to detail.
Taylor Griffin, F, 6-8, Oklahoma (second round) -- No, not Blake Griffin. Right school, right family, but this Griffin averaged 10 points and six rebounds a game for the Sooners and will have a hard time breaking onto the roster.