NBA big guns give Germany the edge

By Barney Spender

ATHENS (Reuters) - Dirk Nowitzki is arguably Europe's most successful basketball export but it could be Germany's newest recruit Chris Kaman who gives them the edge in the quarter-finals of the Olympic qualifiers in Athens on Friday.

The Los Angeles Clippers centre only received his passport last week but was slipped straight into the side for the opening group match against Cape Verde.

He made an immediate impression and followed up with a 20-point performance against New Zealand.

"It has been hard work for Chris because although he is a great player he has had to fit in quickly with the chemistry of the team. But he has been fantastic," said team mate Konrad Wysocki.

The Germans look heavy favorites to beat Brazil and progress to a semi-final against Canada or Croatia.

The Croatians produced a stunning comeback to beat Puerto Rico in the group game on Wednesday.

"I have respect for Canada, but as long as we play as we did today for 30 minutes, we will for sure earn a berth in the semi-finals," said Croatia guard Roko Leni Ukic.

On the other side of the draw, hosts Greece also look like favorites to make it through against New Zealand.