José Costa

Career: Esgueira (Portugal-Liga LCB, 1996-98), Ginásio (Portugal-Liga TMN, 1998-2004), Porto (Portugal-Liga TMN, 2004-05),
Aveiro Basket (Portugal-Liga TMN, 2005-06), Ginásio (Portugal-Liga UZO, 2006-07).

Before coach Melnychuk’s arrival, José Costa was one of the most important and consistent players at the point guard position for Portugal. He can create his own shot by driving inside and is equally lethal if given space from behind the three-point line (32% in Liga UZO last season). Like his younger counterpart Mihava, Costa’s weakness is on the defensive end of the floor and despite his advancing age he is still very important to the squad because of his experience, determination and leadership. Costa had a solid 2007 season with Casino Figueira Ginásio in the Portuguese league (9.1 pts and 4.5 assists in 26 minutes per game). He will certainly enjoy the EuroBasket as a reward for his long and successful career.