Anderson Varejao ruled out for Brazil because of injury

Brazil big man Anderson Varejao is not recovering quickly from the ankle and quadriceps injuries he picked up while playing for Cleveland in the NBA play-offs and will miss this summer's FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Athens.

Varejao, who also missed last year's FIBA Americas Championship because of his contract dispute with the Cavaliers, has been told by Cleveland doctors not to play in Greece.

"I'm shocked by the news," he said. "I thought I was better and focused on recovering.

"It's frustrating because it's a very important moment for the national team. It's important for me, too, as I have always been proud of defending my country."

Anderson said he has already broken the news to his national team coach, Moncho Monsalve.

"I thanked Moncho for having named me and I wished him luck in this challenge. We really need this Olympic berth."

Brazil are hoping to play at an Olympic Games for the first time in 12 years.

They are in Group A of the 12-team FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Athens with hosts Greece and Lebanon.

Only three places are up for grabs for Beijing at the event.

There are also injury concerns around Leandro Barbosa while it is still unclear if Nene, the Denver Nuggets center, will play.

He underwent an operation earlier this year for testicular cancer.

(Credit: FIBA. Click here for further information.)