The 2011 FIBA Americas tournament is over with Argentina taking gold and stamping their passport for 
the London 2012 games. Another country who also qualified for the Olympics was Brazil by coming in second in the tournament.
A surprising feat by Brazil considering they were without the services of Nene, Leandro Barbosa and Anderson Varejao who did not play due to an ankle injury suffered in the 2010-2011 NBA season. For Cavaliers fans it was a a welcomed relief as he continued rehab this summer and it would appear his time toiling in the gym has paid off.
According to his agent, Varejao’s ankle has healed and is now cleared to play in drill and pick-up games.
“Anderson feels great, he’s pain free,” agent Aylton Tesch said.
His agent went on to say that despite overtures from overseas teams who would like to add him to their roster during the lockout, Varejao will likely pass in order to be at full strength come the new season.
This is huge news for Cavs fans seeing how Anderson only suited up for 31 games last season before going down with the injury. He is the leader of the team since LeBron James took his talents to South Beach. Without Varejao, the Cavs are mediocre at best and need all the help they can get.
For his a career, he has averaged 7.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, shoots 51.9% from the field in 24.7 minutes per game. Granted it’s not much but it’s his hustle, energy, and spirit he brings to the Cavs which they need.
Add the fact next season rookies Kyrie Irving, and Tristan Thompson will be making their NBA debut, Cleveland can use Varejao’s veteran leadership to help guide the two young guns.
