GROWING INTEREST

Mickael Gelabale of Team France drives
over Rudy Fernandez of Spain in file
photo.

There is a growing interest among four NBA teams on Team France 6-7 small forward Mickael Gelabale, according to Hoopnotes.com. Not a few are impressed with Gelabale’s all-around game for France in the ongoing FIBA World Championships, which could lead to an NBA career in the very near future. Gelabale played two seasons for the Seattle Supersonics in 2006 to 2008 after being drafted 48th over-all in the 2005 NBA rookie draft. A source close to Gelabale confirmed the interests from the NBA teams.

“Today, NBA teams are still interested in Mickael (Gelabale). Four teams exactly. Memphis, whatever they say, really likes him. All the interested teams think of him for next year. They are interested because Mickael is a good defender and is effective offensively. Someone who makes few mistakes.

“Mickael has his place in the NBA. He wants to play here again. His injuries are behind him. He has a year to convince scouts that his place is in the NBA. Two of the four franchises are expected to follow him very closely this year.”