Basketball: Cameron holding on to American dream

6.00pm - By JAMES McONIE

USA and Detroit Pistons coach Larry Brown hasn't given up on signing Pero Cameron, but not this year.

Speaking exclusively to the Herald on Sunday, NBA-winning coach Brown said he was still very much interested in the Tall Blacks captain.

"We will continue to follow Pero in New Zealand and check on his progress. He is one of a group of players that we would consider looking at for the future."

However, Brown confirmed nothing would happen this season in terms of signing the Kiwi. The Pistons, who toppled the Lakers in the NBA finals in May, begin their title defence on November 2 against the Houston Rockets.

Cameron, 30, is committed to the Breakers this season, but beyond that is uncertain. The former Whangarei boy said his NBA dream was still alive.

"I'd love to give it a shot. It's hard to evaluate my chances because I can't pursue it. It's up to Larry," said Cameron. "You can only pursue it indirectly by being available and doing the best you can wherever you are."

Brown said signing free agent Antonio McDyess changed his plans for Cameron to play pre-season for the Pistons.

Brown also had reservations about the physical condition of the 130kg New Zealander, but he hasn't changed his mind on his ability.

"He knows how to play - he plays hard and smart. He's a big body with great hands and intelligence on the court," said Brown.

The 1.98m (6ft 5in) forward was named in the world champs tournament team in 2002. Then at the Athens Olympics, he played brilliantly against eventual gold medallists Argentina, shooting seven three-pointers.

After that game, Brown was quoted as saying: "I'm going to do everything in my power to give him a chance to try out for Detroit," but added: "I would want him in better shape."

Cameron said he'd listened to Brown's advice. "He [Brown] told me don't give in and keep playing hard. I'm working hard so I don't know what else I can do."

Brown nominated a few Tall Blacks who could make it in the NBA. "Several players could be successful - (Sean) Marks, (Mark) Dickel and (Phill) Jones can all play."