Somewhere in Michigan, a clan will gather round a computer screen and dance a merry jig because Alex Marcotullio is in line to win his second cap for Great Britain in their opening friendly of 2013, against Puerto Rico at London's Copper Box tomorrow.
His accent is resolutely American but it is through his Dumbarton mother Loretta that his allegiances are trans-Atlantic.
"My grandparents moved there when my mum was six or seven," he recounts. "But I've visited Scotland a bunch of times and I absolutely loved it. I still have a lot of family there." When he made his debut two years ago, they rejoiced. "There was pride from everyone in my family, especially for my mum and my grandfather. He is really proud of me representing his country."
What the 22-year-old would rather celebrate is a chance to feature in a competitive tournament. That hangs on avoiding the cuts which will trim the GB squad from 17 to 12 ahead of next month's EuroBasket finals. The odds on a sizeable Caledonian contingent are good, with the Glasgow Rocks forward Gareth Murray joining ex-Falkirk Fury duo Kieron Achara and Ali Fraser in the fight for places.
Marcotullio has impressed during eight days of training camp in Staffordshire under new GB coach Joe Prunty, who will take charge for the first time against the Puerto Ricans. "He really wants me to knock down my open shots, be a smart player, not to turn the ball over, defend, just do a little bit of everything. I guess be a team player," the young guard reveals. "The same goes for everyone on the team. He has really high expectations."
He must also search for a job. Having graduated after four years at Northwestern University in Chicago, the Scot is now looking for his first professional gig. Glasgow Rocks have signalled an interest in bringing him home. All offers, he says, will be considered. "I've heard some talk about Glasgow but there's no pressure on me to go there or start off there. But I love Scotland and going back to my roots would be a great thing."
International Friendly (tomorrow, London) Great Britain v Puerto Rico (3pm)
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