Team 2010-11: New Orleans Hornets (USA-NBA)
Career: Spirou Gilly (Belgium-D2, 2001-02), Leuven (Belgium-D1, 2002-03), Spirou Charleroi (Belgium-D1, 2003-04), Dallas Mavericks (USA-NBA, 2004-07), Golden State Warriors (USA-NBA, 2007-08), Los Angeles Lakers (USA-NBA, 2008-10), New Orleans Hornets (USA-NBA, 2010-11)
If Didier Ilunga Mbenga lines up at EuroBasket 2011 as expected, then Belgium will have the services of an experienced NBA performer who will be a valued defensive anchor in the paint. He has the size, power and aggression which will bring him his usual share of rebounds and blocked shots. Tagged very much as a defensive specialist who has often been buried deep on various NBA benches, he gets much more court time wearing his National Team vest and the chance to show just how much of an impact he can have. He does not have a refined offensive game but can make mid-range jump shots and finish powerfully around the hoop. Suffice to say, Belgium will be a vastly different proposition for opponents if he is in the team and it also means nobody will take liberties inside.
