DOM - Hawks leader Horford waits on national team decision

SANTO DOMINGO (FIBA Americas Championship/FIBA Basketball World Cup) - Al Horford, one of the superstars at the last couple of FIBA Americas Championships, is waiting to see what the Atlanta Hawks do in the free agency period before announcing if he is going to link up with the Dominican Republic this summer.

The 2.08m power forward/center is coming off an NBA season in which he averaged 16.7 points and 8.8 rebounds for the Hawks, who lost in the First Round of the Eastern Conference Playoffs.

The club has since parted with coach Larry Drew and hired former San Antonio Spurs assistant Mike Budenholzer as his replacement.

"I will decide in two weeks," Horford said at his basketball camp 'Horford Hoopsters'.

"Now, the first thing for me is what will happen to the team in free agency.

"Right now, I cannot take any decision."

Horford pours in the points and corrals the rebounds for the Hawks on the court, and he is also a leader.

It's a role that he takes very seriously.

The team is rebuilding under general manager Danny Ferry and Horford wants to be there to help, in case Atlanta want his input.

Immediately after the Hawks' season ended, he spoke about the need to be involved.

"As free agency gets closer and all that stuff starts happening, I’m going to be open if they want my advice on anything or if they need me to give my opinion I’ll definitely be looking to do that and try to be part of things," he said.

If Horford does play for the Dominican Republic and new head coach Orlando Antigua, the national team's chances of reaching the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup will be enhanced.

Horford has been a rock for the Dominicans both with his points and rebounds, and his leadership.

At the 2009 FIBA Americas Championship, he averaged 14 points, 10.2 rebounds and a block as the country finished fifth.

Horford averaged 19 points, 9.2 rebounds and a swat at the 2011 FIBA Americas Championship, leading the Dominicans to a bronze medal.

Despite missing much of the 2011-12 season because of injury, Horford showed up at the 2012 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament and very nearly led the Dominicans into the London Games with averages of 18 points and 9.4 rebounds.

A top-four finish is needed at the FIBA Americas Championship for the Dominicans to qualify for the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup.

FIBA