The sixth edition of the International Saludcoop Cup officially got under way in Bogotá with a spectacular show of laser lights, videos and music.

The tournament is the most important basketball event in Colombia, and is unique in Latin America. No other tournament brings together the Under-18 teams from 11 nations, plus one of the most important organisations in the continent - Miami Tropics.

Nene Hilario, Juan Jose Barea, Ricky Sanchez, Stuard Baldonado, Juan Diego Tello and Adrian Boccia are just a few of the fine players who have appeared in former Saludcoop tournaments.

'Argentina have, in Mateo Gaynor and Andres Landoni, two of the most important and improving players'

The teams invited to this year cup are: Argentina, Brazil, Venezuela, Uruguay, Chile, Miami Tropics (USA – Puerto Rico), Dominican Republic, Panamá, Paraguay, Mexico, Costa Rica and Colombia.

Colombia won the last year’s tournament in a very exciting final against Dominican Republic, but for this year Brazil, Argentina and Venezuela look strong.

Brazil look particularly good and are led by the young but experienced guard Henrique Bramorsky and the strong center Fabrizio De Melo. Argentina have, in Mateo Gaynor and Andres Landoni, two of the most important and improving players.