Gasol and coach Orenga content with Spain's World Cup progress to date

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If Pau Gasol continues in the form he is showing so far in the FBA World Cup, very few people are going to be against Spain winning the tournament on their home ground.

The former LA Lakers star, who is now with the Chicago Bulls, has led the Spanish challenge from the start, netting 30 points as Spain opened their challenge with an easy win over Iran and on Monday, he scored 26 points and claimed nine rebounds in just under 30 minutes on court.

The presence of Gasol and his brother Marc, as well as Serge Ibaka has made the Spanish untouchable and Monday's 82-63 win over Brazil, probably the toughest rivals in their group, merely served to highlight Spain's dominance under the net both in attack and in defense.

"We have got players who are not at all selfish and you can see that in the play," said Gasol of his team's performances so far.

Gasol also highlighted the important role being played by the fans who have packed the stands in Granada, where Spain are playing their Group A matches.

"We are always grateful for the warmth of the fans," he said, adding that he was totally "focused on the national team".

Meanwhile Spain coach Juan Antonio Orenga was delighted with the performance of the veteran.

"Physically he's in great shape, he's happy, relaxed and comfortable and he is playing where he thinks he's most effective. I think he's looking great and he's going to continue improving," said Orenga, who added that Gasol is also a threat with three point throws.

Spain rest on Tuesday but return to action on Wednesday against France, who are without the star player Tony Parker.

"They knocked us out of the last World Championship and that hurt us," remembered Orenga, who admitted things have changed since that disappointment in Turkey.

"France have some important players out while we have important players who were not there. We will need to concentrate, be sharp and get a good start," he warned. Endi

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