Long a Finalist for U. S. Pan American Team

Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns senior forward Shawn Long has been named one of the 16 finalists for the United States Basketball team that will be participating in the Pan American Games.  The announcement was made Thiursday by USA Basketball.

Long averaged a double double for the Cajuns last season and announced in April that he would return for his senior season after considering declaring for the NBA draft.  Long is a two time first team All-Sun Belt selection and averaged a double double last season with 16.4 points and 10.2 rebounds.  He is the NCAA's active leader in career double doubles.

The finalists range in age from 21-34 years old.  Eleven of the sixteen finalists are current collegians.

Long reached double digits in scoring in all 20 conference games a season ago.  He is one of only three players in school history to accumulate 1,000 points and 1,000 rebounds in a career.  He is also second all time in blocked shots.

Thhe 16 finalists will continue training camp through July 12th at the Olympic Training Facility in Colorado Springs, CO.  The final 12 man roster is expected to be announced at that time.  The team will then train for four days at the Chicago Bulls practice facility

Mark Few of Gonzaga is the head coach of the U. S. team.