Melvin Ejim Nigerian National Team Update

HOUSTON, Texas- Iowa State junior basketball player Melvin Ejim has returned to the United States after touring China with the Nigerian National Team from June 5-18.

Ejim's team played five games against Chinese professional teams.

"We won all five games against some really good competition," Ejim said. "I started in two games and have been playing a lot of quality minutes. I even had opportunities to play a little bit at two-guard. It was a great start on the tour for me."

Ejim is one of 15 players aiming for 12 spots on the Nigerian team. The team is currently in Houston and will play a series of exhibition games against Great Britain from June 20-24.

The squad will then be trimmed to 12 players after a trip to Brazil where the Nigerians have games scheduled against Brazil, Greece and New Zealand.

The Olympic Qualifying Tournament will be held in Venezuela from June 30-July 8. Nigeria will be one of 12 teams fighting for the final three spots at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, July 28-August 12.

"It has been a great experience so far," Ejim added. "Even if I don't make the team, I have set myself up for chances to be part of this program in the future."

Ejim was an Honorable Mention All-Big 12 pick in 2012, averaging 9.3 points and 6.6 rebounds.