Carter, Ali to play in tournament in France

A couple of Eastern Florida State College men's basketball players will be competing for their countries in Tourcoing, France this week.

Sophomores Shaq Carter and Ahmed Ali were both invited to play in the Robert and Zoe Scrive's Challenge World Championship in Tourcoing, France.

Carter will compete for the U.S.A. Elite Selection u23 Team while Ali will play for the Canadian team and will compete against six other countries in the tournament beginning Saturday.

"It's amazing that Ahmed and Shaq have the honor to play in such a worldwide event," Eastern Florida State College men's basketball coach Jeremy Shulman said. "Both are outstanding players and it's very exciting to see them get noticed and have a chance to compete on the world scene."

Carter, who learned about making the team before the postseason, joins players like Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Durant, LaMarcus Aldridge and other NBA stars to play for U.S.A. Elite Selection teams.

"I feel like this is a dream come true somewhat a lot of people don't get a chance to play in something like this," Carter said. "I am grateful that I am getting this opportunity."

The teammates may find themselves playing against each other this week, something Carter admits will be odd.

"It will be fun, I have actually never played against Ahmed, so it will be fun," Carte said. "I am just looking to learn as much as I can from the great trainers, coaches and players that I will be with over there. It is going to be a great experience."

The semifinals are slated for Sunday with the championship game on Monday.