Orenga resigns as coach of Spanish team

Juan Antonio Orenga has officially stepped down as the coach of the Spanish National Men’s Basketball Team. He resigned as a result of Spain’s disappointing finish in the recent FIBA World Cup 2014. The tournament hosts were a dominant force during the group stage of the competition and were heavy favorites to face the United States in the Finals. To the dismay of the crowd in attendance and to the multitude of fans watching on television, Spain was upset by France 65-52 during the Quarterfinals. The loss was a huge shock as Spain was able to crush France by 24 points during the group stage. Spain claimed the bronze medal at the European Championships in 2013, after being defeated by France in the semifinals in that event.

Juan Antonio was a former member of the Spanish national team in the late 80s up to the 90s. Orenga filed his resignation with the Spanish Basketball Federation (FEB). He will still remain with the federation in a coaching capacity.

“The FEB wishes to thank Juan Antonio Orenga for his work and dedication, and will continue to rely on his experience and knowledge for the development and improvement of our sporting model”, the Spanish Basketball Federation said in a statement.