German men book ticket to Beijing

By Barney Spender

ATHENS (Reuters) - Dallas Mavericks forward Dirk Nowitzki inspired Germany to a 96-82 win over Puerto Rico in the final game of the qualifying tournament on Sunday to book their place at the Beijing Olympics.

It is the first time Germany have qualified for the Olympics since 1992, when they came seventh.

Nowitzki again led the way for the Germans with 32 points.

"For me he is the MVP of the tournament," said Los Angeles Clippers centre Chris Kaman, who was only given his German passport the week before the tournament.

"He is the guy, one of the top ten players in the world at the moment. You are never out of a game when you have a guy like Dirk in the side."

Germany coach Dirk Bauermann was even more effusive about Nowitzki's contribution.

"He played like a man possessed," he said.

"He was great in defense and his shooting was fantastic. He has to be one of the top three players in the world and a role model for anyone.  Continued...