USA National Team 2012 Olympics

[NorCal]

Hi all,

I know we are heading into the funnest part of the W.C. but I thought it would also be fun to see who everyone thinks should be on the U.S. National Team for the 2012 Olympics. Thoughts?

[Luíz for 3]

Will USA quit FIBA Americas Championship 2011 again if they win WC 2010? I'd like to watch them playing and FIBA should never allow this kind of decisions from USA Basketball.

Guards
Derrick Rose (Chicago Bulls)
Russell Westbrook (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)
Tyreke Evans (Sacramento Kings)
Aaron Brooks (Houston Rockets)
Rajon Rondo (Boston Celtics)
Devin Harris (New Jersey Nets)
Darren Collison (New Orleans Hornets)
John Wall (Washington Wizards)
Chris Paul (New Orleans Hornets)
Deron Williams (Utah Jazz)
Dwyane Wade (Miami Heat)
Kobe Bryant (Los Angeles Lakers)
Monta Ellis (Golden State Warriors)

Forwards
Kevin Durant (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Rudy Gay (Memphis Grizzlies)
Andre Iguodala (Philadelphia 76’ers)
LeBron James (Miami Heat)
Carmelo Anthony (Denver Nuggets)
Chris Bosh (Miami Heat)
LaMarcus Aldridge (Portland Trail Blazers)
Jeff Green (Oklahoma City Thunder)
Michael Beasley (Miami Heat)
Derrick Favors (New Jersey Nets)

Centers
Dwight Howard (Orlando Magic)
Carlos Boozer (Utah Jazz)
David Lee (Golden State Warriors)
Al Jefferson (Minnesota Timberwolves)
Kendrick Perkins (Boston Celtics)
Brook Lopez (New Jersey Nets)
Robin Lopez (Phoenix Suns)
Kevin Love (Minnesota Timberwolves)
Amar’e Stoudemire (New York Knicks)
DeMarcus Cousins (Sacramento Kings)

This is my 34 players list, 2 years before the Olympics and obviously some players I picked won't be part of USA preliminary rosters.

[CKR13]

There are more at stake for Team USA on winning the 2010 WC as it guarantees an entry into the 2012 Olympics.

Failure to win on the WC means Team USA would need to secure a berth on the Olympics via competing for a qualification berth on the FIBA Americas 2011 where the situation is much more complicated due to the impending lock-out on the 2011 summer where there is a chance that the players of Team USA will not participate due to work-stoppage.

No participation on the FIBA Americas means no qualification and escalate further to a potential scenario where there will be no Team USA on the Olympic Basketball stage.

I fear for this and I am hoping circumstances will not unravel into a lock-out on summer next year where the NBA and its Player's Association have been meeting and discussing terms but it is looking that they are far from basic agreement over new provisions of the next CBA where even the provisions have yet been made public for information.

On the scenario, the NBDL won't even be able to participate. Maybe a cast of NCAA players like Kyrie Irivng and Harrison Barnes won't even guarantee a qualification berth due to the sheer quality of teams such as Brazil, Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic.

This topic is trending on insidehoops forums, brought it over here to share.

[CKR13]

But on the lighter side of the news, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul have expressed interest to play for Team USA again and so far have verbally committed.

[Luíz for 3]

There are more at stake for Team USA on winning the 2010 WC as it guarantees an entry into the 2012 Olympics.

Failure to win on the WC means Team USA would need to secure a berth on the Olympics via competing for a qualification berth on the FIBA Americas 2011 where the situation is much more complicated due to the impending lock-out on the 2011 summer where there is a chance that the players of Team USA will not participate due to work-stoppage.

No participation on the FIBA Americas means no qualification and escalate further to a potential scenario where there will be no Team USA on the Olympic Basketball stage.

I fear for this and I am hoping circumstances will not unravel into a lock-out on summer next year where the NBA and its Player's Association have been meeting and discussing terms but it is looking that they are far from basic agreement over new provisions of the next CBA where even the provisions have yet been made public for information.

On the scenario, the NBDL won't even be able to participate. Maybe a cast of NCAA players like Kyrie Irivng and Harrison Barnes won't even guarantee a qualification berth due to the sheer quality of teams such as Brazil, Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic.

This topic is trending on insidehoops forums, brought it over here to share.

What you are saying is that USA roster could be like in 1998 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1998_FIBA_World_Championship_squads#United_States) ??
NCAA players would never qualify USA to the Olympics, that's obvious. They can't compete with 20 years old against high professional players!

[Nikoo]

On the scenario, the NBDL won't even be able to participate. Maybe a cast of NCAA players like Kyrie Irivng and Harrison Barnes won't even guarantee a qualification berth due to the sheer quality of teams such as Brazil, Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic.
Well, they managed to do it it 2005 with a rag-tag team led by Kris Lang, Charlie Bell and Tyus Edney

[CKR13]

Well, they managed to do it it 2005 with a rag-tag team led by Kris Lang, Charlie Bell and Tyus Edney

We were fortunate to secure a qualifying berth back then. I'm not being a pessimists nor will I be over-confident given that the Team USA pool of players will not be playing on the FIBA Americas 2011.


What you are saying is that USA roster could be like in 1998??
NCAA players would never qualify USA to the Olympics, that's obvious. They can't compete with 20 years old against high professional players!

That could be the scenario where if a lock-out ensues and the players of the Team USA pool are not available, we could tap American players playing abroad + NCAA selections this time around. However given the tremendous improvement of the Americas countries, an NCAA+Professionals Abroad will not guarantee an automatic berth, I mean Team USA will be an underdog on the FIBA Americas.

[dxjayrock2008]

There are more at stake for Team USA on winning the 2010 WC as it guarantees an entry into the 2012 Olympics.

Failure to win on the WC means Team USA would need to secure a berth on the Olympics via competing for a qualification berth on the FIBA Americas 2011 where the situation is much more complicated due to the impending lock-out on the 2011 summer where there is a chance that the players of Team USA will not participate due to work-stoppage.

No participation on the FIBA Americas means no qualification and escalate further to a potential scenario where there will be no Team USA on the Olympic Basketball stage.

I fear for this and I am hoping circumstances will not unravel into a lock-out on summer next year where the NBA and its Player's Association have been meeting and discussing terms but it is looking that they are far from basic agreement over new provisions of the next CBA where even the provisions have yet been made public for information.

On the scenario, the NBDL won't even be able to participate. Maybe a cast of NCAA players like Kyrie Irivng and Harrison Barnes won't even guarantee a qualification berth due to the sheer quality of teams such as Brazil, Puerto Rico and Dominican Republic.

This topic is trending on insidehoops forums, brought it over here to share.



Deja vu of 1998? Damn!

[mbenga]

We were fortunate to secure a qualifying berth back then. I'm not being a pessimists nor will I be over-confident given that the Team USA pool of players will not be playing on the FIBA Americas 2011.
Would a lockout affect to the "international" NBA players or it just applyes to USA basketball? That wasn't that big of a deal in 1998 but it will be now.
A team composed by USAmericans playing in Europe is way better than Brazil without Splitter, Varejao, Nene and Barbosa, or Argentina without Ginobili, Scola, Delfino, Nocioni, Oberto....

[CKR13]

Would a lockout affect to the "international" NBA players or it just applyes to USA basketball? That wasn't that big of a deal in 1998 but it will be now.
A team composed by USAmericans playing in Europe is way better than Brazil without Splitter, Varejao, Nene and Barbosa, or Argentina without Ginobili, Scola, Delfino, Nocioni, Oberto....

It only applies to the Team USA pool I believe, as most international players have a clause on their NBA contracts from their basketball federations to be able to play when the season is not ongoing; unless the International players are restrained by their team from doing so.

[dxjayrock2008]

It only applies to the Team USA pool I believe, as most international players have a clause on their NBA contracts from their basketball federations to be able to play when the season is not ongoing; unless the International players are restrained by their team from doing so.


Hopefully this will not affect the USA Basketball in whole.

[bobo81]

I am not too worried over the potential and very real NBA lock out. I am confident that a deal would be reached within time, especially because of this scenario.

------------------------

Here are some guys I would not mind seeing in our roster pool for the future:


Brandon Roy (I really do wish)
John Wall
Ty Lawson
Evan Turner
Cole Aldrich
Wesley Johnson

I know some are too early to tell but I think they could do well for us in international competition.

[usagre]

I am not too worried over the potential and very real NBA lock out. I am confident that a deal would be reached within time, especially because of this scenario.

------------------------

Here are some guys I would not mind seeing in our roster pool for the future:


Brandon Roy (I really do wish)
John Wall
Ty Lawson
Evan Turner
Cole Aldrich
Wesley Johnson

I know some are too early to tell but I think they could do well for us in international competition.

brandon roy obviously, john wall, evan turner remains to be seen, ty lawson?
come on man. how about josh smith?

[CKR13]

I was looking forward for Brandon Roy joining Team USA this summer. But maybe next year. His shooting and offensive capabilities will be an asset for Team USA on the 2-guard spot.

[bobo81]

come on man. how about josh smith?

Naah...NBA vets said it best. He needs to develop his game more instead of relying on transitional alleyoops and dunks. I am not confident in his shooting nor his passing game. At least the Forwards on our team now have an all-around game.

[CKR13]

Brandon Roy
Gives us the second best shooting guard on the Western Conference after Kobe Bryant; on whom I think will focus solely on his legacy on the NBA, considering the stage of his career.

Brook Lopez
Another legitimate and I think is on his way to All-Star status. Another potent center possibly backing up Dwight Howard.

I'm also looking forward to the return of Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul on the fold. So far, both have verbally committed to play for Team USA on 2012 Olympics.

[dxjayrock2008]

Brandon Roy
Gives us the second best shooting guard on the Western Conference after Kobe Bryant; on whom I think will focus solely on his legacy on the NBA, considering the stage of his career.

Brook Lopez
Another legitimate and I think is on his way to All-Star status. Another potent center possibly backing up Dwight Howard.

I'm also looking forward to the return of Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul on the fold. So far, both have verbally committed to play for Team USA on 2012 Olympics.


Coach K shouldn't cut Brook Lopez out of Team USA pool in the first place. Tyson Chandler is the only legit center for the current squad.

[NorCal]

Brandon Roy
Gives us the second best shooting guard on the Western Conference after Kobe Bryant; on whom I think will focus solely on his legacy on the NBA, considering the stage of his career.

Brook Lopez
Another legitimate and I think is on his way to All-Star status. Another potent center possibly backing up Dwight Howard.

I'm also looking forward to the return of Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul on the fold. So far, both have verbally committed to play for Team USA on 2012 Olympics.

I would like to see Roy on the team as well, I think his game would translate well to FIBA rules. If you take the core eight from the '08 team and add Roy, Durant and a few young guys this roster should be stronger than the Redeem Team simply because the majority fo them will be in their primes (which traditionally is between the ages of 25-30 for bball players)

Guards:
Wade- will be 30 in 2012
Paul- 27
Williams- 28
Kobe- 34 (may not commit to play b/c of age and the wear of playing more games than he needs to, just my guess)
Roy- 28

Wings:
James- 27
Anthony- 28
Durant- 23

Bigs:
Bosh- 28
Howard- 26

I would like to see those players and then a few other up and comers added to the team such as Tyreke Evans, Brook Lopez, Blake Griffin, John Wall, Derrick Rose, Demarcus Cousins, whoever separates themselves from the other young talents in the NBA in the next couple of years.

This team could be really exciting to say the least

[bobo81]

@NorCal...lool

I'm sorry. That team is unbeatable. 100% I'll call it any day. :)

[greenarcher]

From this "B" Team I say: Durant, Westbrook, Odom, Iguodala.

Love and Gordon are also worthy considering the few minutes they played.

I hope Lebron, Carmelo, Kobe and Dwight can return for Team USA.

[Nikoo]

Team out of Euroleague, NCAA and D-League stars. Give the World a chance :D

[bulldog3312]

Durant is the only lock. Rose would be most likely to make it after him.

[Strida]

Two years is a long ways away. Who knows how these players evolve? The only ones who are guaranteed to not come back are Odom and Billups.

[totip]

Are there any chances that their coach tell to the so-called "superstars" who stayed at home this time to f**k off ?
I mean, they won without them, they earned this olympic spot? And with another two years , with more maturity they could be even more competitive.
I guess that even if coach K decide not to pick those stars, Nike will force them on the team! nah ...just kidding!

[Live and die in LA]

Wade
Bynum (if he's healthy by that time LOL)
Wall

The USAB higher-ups hate LeBron to the max

[Apollo64]

Durant (duh) and Iguodala, because of his terrific defense. The rest are probably not needed in the US A-team.

EDIT: Given that Kobe, Wade, Deron and Paul would be locks, there is still room for one more guard, maybe Rose, maybe Westbrook or Wall, whoever is at his best shape in 2012.

[Live and die in LA]

Yeah Iguodala and Westbrook.

Westbrook has just got to avoid being too showy sometimes so he doesn't miss those dunks

[thegreekmeister]

The USAB higher-ups hate LeBron to the max

Whats USAB? And why do they hate Lebron?

[thegreekmeister]

Durant (duh) and Iguodala, because of his terrific defense. The rest are probably not needed in the US A-team.

EDIT: Given that Kobe, Wade, Deron and Paul would be locks, there is still room for one more guard, maybe Rose, maybe Westbrook or Wall, whoever is at his best shape in 2012.

Only 2? Could you name 10 others that could take the spots?

Personally I would invte these 12 men, like someone said they earned the olympics spot, they should play. Plus as we saw they are capable to be clear favorites anyway

[Live and die in LA]

Whats USAB? And why do they hate Lebron?

USA Basketball... the organization that creates national teams for the US

Why do they hate LeBron? Read here. (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=aw-heatfreeagency071610)

[viridianus]

Well, beside Durant and Iguodala (as a defensive player), I think that Rose also could be called to play the Olympics for the US team; and if I were coach K or Colangelo or a member of the US coaching staff, I would definitely call Lamar Odom also: he is a really outstanding player who gives a lot yo his team, be it the Los Angeles Lakers, be the US national team

[Visseira]

Colangelo has already said that he would like to see a mix of 2008 and 2010 teams.
It could be something like this:

PG: Williams, Paul, Billups (with the same role Kidd had)
SG: Kobe, Wade, Westbrook
SF: LeBron, Durant
PF: Bosh, Odom
C: Howard, Love

[Joško Poljak Fan]

From this "B" Team I say: Durant, Westbrook, Odom, Iguodala.

Love and Gordon are also worthy considering the few minutes they played.

I hope Lebron, Carmelo, Kobe and Dwight can return for Team USA.
Now that is exactly the recepee for disaster US finaly avoided this year...

This team was finaly rounded up with common sense... adding those 4 in the team doesn't neccesarily mean they'll end up short of the medal, but definately means US team wouldn't be as conviencing as this team was.

Coach K assembled a great team with fundamentals, left some of the bulked PF/C's at home and replaced them with, by NBA standards, fundamental PF's like Odom and Durant along with constantly playing with 3 guards adding even more fundamentals to US game. Coincidence?... "tractor Traylors" don't work in FIBA basketball... and neither does superstars expecting some priviledge status or going easy in defense.
Durant was playing all round, didn't force ridiciolous shots as key US players did in the past, played D, created for his teamates and the team easily created without trying to force "one on one".
Getting as fundamental player for US main option or as small lineup as we've seen wasn't a coincidence, it was a major if not no.1 reason for this success.
Whoever doesn't get that, has no clue about international basketball...

Great work by coach K, obviously he isn't considered as an NCAA mastermind for no reason, he did a great job.


I hope this NT would be a wake up call for NBA basketball, that would finaly avoid "the search for the next jordans" and the "marketing for 13 years old fan base concept"... getting back to the passing game of Lakers - Detroit - Boston from 80/90ies (if that actually has any fans left) is the answer, this team did play on that principle, previous didn't and failed miserably. Those games had soul, bigger attendance, larger popularity among US profesional leagues than NBA has nowadays... but... smaller revenues

I am afraid marketing would prevail and snicker producers would have the leading role in selecting the final team - leaving that to coach K means succes, leaving the selection to marketing experts means US will have much harder time dominating as they did in this championship.

Well deserved victory by US! Now stick to that and let fundamentals play the game once again as it used to be played in it's best times!


Carmelo Anthony? ...well you'd sure make a day to numerous european fans, calling him into the NT once again... but I believe Colangelo and Mike K. know better. Let's hope Stern won't screw that up for the sake of $$$

[CKR13]

Whats USAB? And why do they hate Lebron?

USA Basketball High Authorities reportedly like Jerry Colangelo who was disappointed on LeBron James' Free Agency Publicity and skipping the WC 2010.

[dxjayrock2008]

USA Basketball High Authorities reportedly like Jerry Colangelo who was disappointed on LeBron James' Free Agency Publicity and skipping the WC 2010.


Prima donnas don't belong in USAB. Lol. :D

[CKR13]

The following are the players that I would like to see retained on the team come 2012.

Kevin Durant - Certainly will be named, barring injuries.

Andre Iguodala - Really showed his versatility on this year's WC.

Eric Gordon - I'd like to see him because of his shooting and tough perimeter defense.

[dxjayrock2008]

Guards:Eric Gordon, Stephen Curry, Russell Westbrook and Chauncey Billups.

Forwards:Kevin Durant, Kevin Love, Andre Iguodala and Lamar Odom.

Centers:WTF!:D

[CKR13]

Tyson Chandler has expressed interest on re-joining Team USA for the 2012 Olympics in London, on an interview with the Dallas Mavericks press.


"Absolutely, I'd like to do this again," he said. "It's a huge honor to represent your country and if the chance comes to do it again in a couple years, I'd love to."

[dxjayrock2008]

Tyson Chandler has expressed interest on re-joining Team USA for the 2012 Olympics in London, on an interview with the Dallas Mavericks press.


Quote:
"Absolutely, I'd like to do this again," he said. "It's a huge honor to represent your country and if the chance comes to do it again in a couple years, I'd love to."


That's the spirit Mr. Chandler.

[CKR13]

The Los Angeles Lakers were in London recently to play a pre-season exhibition game against the Minnesota Timberwolves and Kobe Bryant was interviewed by CNN London. In between the rounds of questions, Bryant has expressed interests in playing for TEAM USA for the 2012 London Olympics.


"It is a good build up for the Olympics; this is going to be a great experience, to have all the best athletes in the world in London to perform and to give it their all.

"I'm excited to hopefully be one of them."

[CKR13]

Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose who was a member of Team USA winning the Championship in Turkey, recently was interviewed by the Chicago Tribune on several topics. On the bouts of questions, the tribune asked if Rose would want the opportunity to represent the country in the Olympic Basketball Tournament in London, 2012.

Rose was quoted with the following statements suggesting strong interests in playing for Team USA in the 2012 Olympics:


"I really want it. "That's something I can brag about to my kids if they play sports. Like if they win a championship, it doesn't matter, I won a gold medal. Until you win one of them, that's when you can come talk to me."


"I told them, some way, somehow, let me get on the team. I'll be the towel boy, whatever-boy, doesn't matter. Just let me be on it."


"We're basketball players. We just love playing, all the players were cool guys. They're good people. That beats everything. If you have a cool guy, it doesn't matter, you'll click on the court."

[CKR13]

Los Angeles Lakers forward and member of Team USA that won the World Championship in Turkey, Lamar Odom has expressed interests in re-enlisting for Team USA in the 2012 London Basketball Olympics. In an interview with the Los Angeles Insider, Odom gave the following statements suggesting strong interests:

Asked about a potentiall third championship and a Gold Medal:


"I want more of everything. I want it all. I want a gold in the Olympics, as many rings as I can get, because you don't know how long this is going to last. Wanna keep racking 'em up. I'm not sure about London, but hopefully."

Asked about what is the difference between representing the country and playing for the Los Angeles Lakers:


It's a different kind of pride. You're standing on the podium and your flag is being raised, your head can go off. This is a grind and winning the NBA championship is a little different, but at the end of the day, winning is winning. If you're a winner and you've won before you can understand how it feels and you can appreciate it."

[Theskyisalandfil]

The U.S definitely still have a very deep talent pool. Tbh I would be happy with any combo of the 2008 and 2010 guys (the latter of whom if anything were more impressive), and quietly confident of gold. Looking forward to watching them.

[NorCal]

The U.S definitely still have a very deep talent pool. Tbh I would be happy with any combo of the 2008 and 2010 guys (the latter of whom if anything were more impressive), and quietly confident of gold. Looking forward to watching them.

You really think that the 2010 was more impressive than the 2008 team? The numbers don't back that up, plus the 2008 team played against a tougher field.

I think the only thing more impressive about the 2010 team is they won and most people didn't think they would.

[CKR13]

Portland Trailblazers guard Brandon Roy has also expressed interest in participating for Team USA in the 2012 London Olympics Basketball tournament. Roy was interviewed by the Oregonian (Newspaper) and Roy was quoted with the following statements suggesting interest:


"I still hope so; besides winning the NBA championship, that also has been a dream of mine to have a gold medal.



"If there's a chance, I'm healthy and playing well and somebody can't play that year, you never know what happens. I would love to try to play. If they are looking for a reserve, I would raise my hand and say, 'Here I am.' I would love to try then if the opportunity presents itself.''


Asked why he could not play for Team USA in the recently concluded FIBA World Championships:


"It was more health. I just didn't think it's the smartest decision for by body going through an 82-game season and playoffs. My knees need to rest rather than going out and playing another month and a half of basketball."


"I was invited, and I had to decline and it was a tough decision. I sat down and talked to just about everybody about it. My coach and my family, they wanted me to play. But I know my body and I know how it feels so I just respectfully declined the offer.''

[NorCal]

Portland Trailblazers guard Brandon Roy has also expressed interest in participating for Team USA in the 2012 London Olympics Basketball tournament. Roy was interviewed by the Oregonian (Newspaper) and Roy was quoted with the following statements suggesting interest:







Asked why he could not play for Team USA in the recently concluded FIBA World Championships:

I think I may have mentioned this in another post but I was very disappointed that Roy didn't try out for the W.C. team this past summer and that he has been lukewarm about playing for the national team in the past. I think his game is perfectly suited for the international rules.

I also have a bad feeling his window will be closed by 2012, I think the cumulative affect of his injuries are going to wind down his career earlier than he would like. Also, there are a number of great up and coming PG/SG/Wings that may surpass him by that time as well.

[CKR13]

Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant was a guest in Team USA and Duke Men's Basketball Coach Mike Kyrzyzewski's Radio Show titled: SIRIUS XM radio show,

Kyrzyzewski asked Bryant about if he is committed to play for Team USA in the 2012 London Olympics Basketball Tournament.

Bryant said:


“You guys want me there, I am there and I’m ready to defend,” Bryant said. “And then when you guys need me to put some points on the board I’ll do that, too.”

------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kobe could be the veteran mentor that Jason Kidd had done for Team USA in 2008.

[mvblair]

Kobe could be the veteran mentor that Jason Kidd had done for Team USA in 2008.
Kobe would be nice for the team, but Dwight Howard would be much more important. We've got plenty of SG/SFs but we lack big men. The big men will make or break the team.

[CKR13]

Kobe would be nice for the team, but Dwight Howard would be much more important. We've got plenty of SG/SFs but we lack big men. The big men will make or break the team.

After the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Dwight Howard was interviewed by the Orlando Sentinel (http://blogs.orlandosentinel.com/sports_magic/2010/11/dwight-howard-to-play-in-12-olympics.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+sports%2Fmagic%2Fbasketblog+% 28Magic+BasketBlog%29) and Howard has expressed willingness and a strong interest in playing for Team USA for the 2012 London Olympics:


“I’ll probably play ofcourse. It’s another chance to represent our country."

[CKR13]

Miami HEAT forward LeBron James has also pledged to play for Team USA in the 2012 London Olympics according to the Associated Press relayed by Yahoo! Sports (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=ap-lebron-olympics)


MIAMI (AP)—LeBron James(notes) has made another decision: He wants to be an Olympian again.

The Miami Heat forward said Thursday that he would “love to be a part” of the 2012 U.S. men’s basketball team at the London Olympics and help defend the gold medal the Americans won in the Beijing Games. And if U.S. coach Mike Krzyzewski wants him back, James says he’s just a phone call away.

“Coach K has my number. I have his number,” James said. “If he needs me, I’m there.”

The U.S. clinched a spot in the 2012 field by winning the world championship this summer, with that team led by Oklahoma City star Kevin Durant(notes)—a close pal of James. Five-time NBA champion Kobe Bryant(notes) of the Los Angeles Lakers said earlier this week that he’d also like to play on the 2012 squad.

“You guys want me there, I am there and I’m ready to defend,” Bryant said Tuesday on Krzyzewski’s SIRIUS XM radio show. “And then when you guys need me to put some points on the board, I’ll do that, too.”

James’ teammates in Miami would also figure to be in the Olympic consideration mix. Chris Bosh(notes) and Dwyane Wade(notes) were also part of the “Redeem Team” in Beijing, but Wade has said at least twice in the past few days that he has no timetable for making up his mind.

James, Wade, Carmelo Anthony(notes), Dwight Howard(notes) and Chris Paul(notes) also skipped worlds in Istanbul this summer, but Anthony and Paul—also friends of Miami’s two-time reigning NBA MVP—have already said they want to be part of the mix in London.

If he plays in 2012, it would be James’ third Olympics.

“I would love to be a part of that team,” James said. “I think it’s an unbelievable thing to represent your country. If Coach K needs me to be a part of that team, I’m available. Hopefully I’m healthy enough to be a part of that team. But I’m always up for the Olympics and representing my country.

[CKR13]

Miami HEAT forward LeBron James has insisted again on his willingness to play for Team USA in the London 2012 Olympics.

In an interview with the Miami Herald, James was quoted:

"I would love to be a part of that team. If coach Mike Krzyzewski needs me to be a part of that team, I'm available. Hopefully I'm healthy enough to be a part of that team. Coach K has my number."

[CKR13]

New York Knicks forward Amar'e Stoudemire has expressed interest in playing for Team USA in the London 2012 Olympics. Stoudemire was quoted in an interview with the NY-Post:


"You want to make sure you stay healthy and be ready for the regular season. But I think three years of staying in shape, I think it will all work out."


It is noted that Stoudemire has expressed interest in joining Team USA on the recently concluded FIBA 2010 World Championships in Turkey, but the New York Knicks have discussed insurance and injury concerns with Stoudemire after the latter signed a contract worth $100 Million in a span of five years.

[CKR13]

Teammates of LeBron James, Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade of the Miami HEAT were also interviewed by the Miami Herald tonight about their thoughts regarding playing for Team USA for the 2012 London Olympics.

A day after James has expressed strong interests in playing for Team USA in the coming 2012 Olympics, Bosh and Wade were respectively interviewed and were quoted with the following statements:


Bosh: "I'm just focused on right now, there's too much going on in my life right now to try to think about that. Once the season is over and the summer comes we'll talk about it."


Wade: "It is a ways off, I've got a lot of other things to worry about that I deal with off the court. I'm not there to where I have to make a decision. I'm glad those guys said that and they're going to play for our team. When the time comes it will be made but it will be a collective decision that I'll make with my family."

[CKR13]

USA Basketball is planning to organize a small training camp come summer 2011 for the initial pool of players to be selected for the London Olympics 2010 according to USA Basketball Chairman and NBA Representative Jerry Colangelo in a press statement released for ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/truehoop/miamiheat/news/story?id=5764830&campaign=rss&source=NBAHeadlines) and USAToday (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/default.htm). The training camp's date is TBA (To Be Announced) and is most likely in mid August 2011. A single exhibition game is also in the potential schedule.

---------------------------------------------------

I think Team USA will send invites to those who have initially have declared interest in participation albeit declining to play for the FIBA 2010 World Championships. That and we could see some returning players from this year's 2010 Team USA Roster.

In the case of an impending NBA 2011 lock-out, I wonder if Team USA will insist on the training camp and exhibition game for next year. Most likely, Jerry Colangelo will have to talk about it with the NBA Board of Directors and some representatives from the NBA Players' Union.

[L8DBACK]

Team USA will be really stacked for the 2012 Olympics.:eek: Who are the players that will be on this Olympic team?:confused: Hopefully, Colangelo and Coach K will determine who will be on that team. :D

[CKR13]

New Orleans Hornets star point guard Chris Paul was interviewed by nola.com about his thoughts on the upcoming 2012 London Olympics after the Hornets defeated the Miami HEAT 96-93 on the NBA 2010-2011 Regular Season. Paul was quoted:


“I’m in. I want to be. I want to play. If they’ll have me, I want to play.”

[CKR13]

I was listening to ESPN Radio awhile ago and Team USA NBA Representative Chairman Jerry Colangelo was interviewed and among the interesting topic was his thoughts on the recent declaration of NBA Superstars to once again play for Team USA come 2012 London Olympics.

I quote Colangelo:


"Most likely, 2012 will consists of players from 2008 and players from 2010. New faces can also be in... like Blake Griffin who is in the watchlist".

Chris Tomasson of NBA Insider / NBA Fanhouse also relayed the info on his twitter. (http://twitter.com/christomasson/statuses/1688592237723648)

[Lebron23]

2012 USA National Team

C- Dwight Howard
F- Kevin Durant
F - LeBron James
G- Dwayne Wade
G- Derrick Rose

Bench


C- Andrew Bynum
F- Chris Bosh
F- Kevin Love
F- Blake Griffin
F- Carmelo Anthony
G- Stephen Curry
G- Russell Westbrook
G- Kobe Bryant

[Silent Killer]

1st 5 could be

Howard
Durant
James
Bryant
Rose

Off the bench
Stoudamire
Paul
Anthony
Odom
Bosh
D. Williams
Westbrook

[kaiziken_pinas]

my fantasy lineup (lol)

Howard
Griffin
James
Wade
Rose

Bench:

Amare
Bosh
Anthony
Durant
Deron Williams

Love
Paul

[CKR13]

Not a fantasy line-up but a team composed of those who have either expressed their interest or contemplating to play in the London 2012 Olympics, or guaranteed locks.

Centers:

Dwight Howard (Interested)
Tyson Chandler (Interested)

Forwards:

Carmelo Anthony (Interested)
LeBron James (Interested)
Kevin Durant (Lock)
Blake Griffin (Interested)
Amare Stoudemire (Interested)
Lamar Odom (Interested)

Guards

Chris Paul (Interested)
Derrick Rose (Interested)
Kobe Bryant (Interested)
Brandon Roy (Interested but uncertain due to health concerns)

Unsure:

Dwyane Wade
Chris Bosh
Deron Williams
Kevin Love
Eric Gordon

[ars111]

Not a fantasy line-up but a team composed of those who have either expressed their interest or contemplating to play in the London 2012 Olympics, or guaranteed locks.

Centers:

Dwight Howard (Interested)
Tyson Chandler (Interested)

Forwards:

Carmelo Anthony (Interested)
LeBron James (Interested)
Kevin Durant (Lock)
Blake Griffin (Interested)
Amare Stoudemire (Interested)
Lamar Odom (Interested)

Guards

Chris Paul (Interested)
Derrick Rose (Interested)
Kobe Bryant (Interested)
Brandon Roy (Interested but uncertain due to health concerns)

Unsure:

Dwyane Wade
Chris Bosh
Deron Williams
Kevin Love
Eric Gordon

If all this players agree to play for National Team that will be one of the strongest teams in 15 years.

[rikhardur]

USA – Gay: Representing my country helped me raise my game

MEMPHIS (2010 FIBA World Championship/2012 London Olympics) – Rudy Gay is having a banner year for the Memphis Grizzlies and credits that to playing with the Team USA last summer.

Gay played a key role as Mike Krzyzewski’s side took the gold medal at the 2010 FIBA World Championship in Turkey back in September and is currently averaging career highs in most statistical categories for the Memphis Grizzlies, who are in the thick of the NBA’s playoff battle in the ever-competitive Western Conference.

“I learned so much from different players,” the 24-year-old forward told Yahoo! Sports. “I think I took a little bit from everybody.”

The fifth year pro out of Connecticut relished the opportunity to play outside of the United States and doing so for the national team.

“We played Greece in Greece, we played Spain in Spain and played Turkey in Turkey for the championship and there’s nothing like being in a different country and representing your country,” he added.

Gay embraced the challenge of proving his worth not only to the rest of the world his worth, but also to his own team-mates.

“To be in practice and how competitive the practices were, it made you raise your game to another level,” he explained. “You didn’t want to be the guy who over and over gets beaten off the dribble.”
http://www.fiba.com/pages/eng/fc/news/lateNews/p/newsid/45610/arti.html

Is this a proper answer to Mark Cuban (http://forums.interbasket.net/f6/mark-cuban-snubs-fiba-wants-international-15581/)? :D

[CKR13]

Similar to what rikhardur have posted:


Notebook: Brook Lopez reflects on missed time with Team USA

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – Avery Johnson has talked all season about how much he thought the players who played for the United States in the basketball World Championships over the summer – including Oklahoma City’s Kevin Durant – benefited from the experience.

Brook Lopez might have had that experience, had he not missed out because of a bout with mononucleosis.

“I was one that was hoping he could participate on that team, and I flew out to Vegas and watched him practice,’’ Johnson said of Lopez. “I was hoping that things would have worked out for him to be on that team. Hopefully, in two years, he’ll have a shot (to make the Olympic team).’’

Lopez watched the team win the gold medal and said he was cheering the team on the whole time.

“It was something that I would have liked to be a part of,’’ Lopez said. “I think it would have helped a lot, no question. They were obviously a very good team and they carried themselves very well and were great chemistry-wise.’’

-nj.com (http://www.nj.com/nets/index.ssf/2010/12/notebook_brook_lopez_reflects.html)

[Khalid80]

I would to like to read what Kevin Love would have to say about this as well... Ever since he joined the U.S NT the guy has just been phenomenal..

[CKR13]

With the London Olympics scheduled to begin officially at July 7, 2012 compared to the last 2008 Beijing Olympics of August 8, 2008;and the official lineups must be submitted as early as June 18, 2012; there won't be sufficient time to hold the traditional mini-camp held for many years by the Olympic Basketball Committee for the selection of players.

An article from NBA Fanhouse (http://nba.fanhouse.com/2011/02/18/team-usa-must-select-2012-olympians-without-benefit-of-a-camp/) also describes the scenario:



Team USA Must Select 2012 Olympians Without Benefit of a Camp

LOS ANGELES -- Chris Bosh does not envy Jerry Colangelo.

For the 2008 Olympics, Colangelo, USA Basketball's chairman, had until July 1 to set the roster, which was shortly after Team USA had scheduled a minicamp June 27-28 in Las Vegas, although the players actually were decided upon before the camp. But, if the Americans want to have a camp before choosing the final roster for the 2012 Games in London, it won't be possible.

Due to the upcoming Olympics starting July 27, 2012, as opposed to the Bejing Games beginning Aug. 8, 2008, nations must provide the names of 12 players and six alternatives by June 18, 2012. That won't be enough time to have a minicamp to give Colangelo, with the help of coach Mike Krzyzewski, a final chance to evaluate players.

"There's so many great players with the national team right now, I'm glad I don't have to pick them,'' Bosh, the Miami forward who played in the 2008 Olympics, said during All-Star Weekend on Friday when asked about the process perhaps being made more difficult due to the earlier start of the London Olympics.

The are 10 holdovers from the 2008 Olympic gold-medal winning outfit in Team USA's pool of 34 players for 2012 and 12 off last summer's World Championship team that won gold to clinch a a 2012 Olympic berth. The number should rise to 35 due to Colangelo saying Friday Clippers forward Blake Griffin is a good bet to be added.

"Literally, what I have to do now is just look at what happens the rest of this season and what happens next season during the year, and then we have to submit our roster ... without a camp,'' Colangelo said. "The good news is... everyone wants to play. Start with that. The difficulty is we will not have a get-together camp situation to go through a lot of that stuff... At the end of the day, we're going to have to pick 12 names (June 18) without having the ability to get our team together.''

Actually, Bosh said Friday he remains noncommittal for 2012 and his Miami teammate, Dwyane Wade, had said last fall it was too early to commit. But the other top six 2008 Olympians have said they want to play in London.

Colangelo, whose Americans will have a training camp in July 2012 after the Olympic roster has been submitted, wouldn't call what he faces for 2012 extra pressure because he said so many of the top players have been with USA Basketball for either the 2008 or 2010 events. Still, because there are so many more strong candidates for 2012 than there were for 2008, one would think a minicamp would be handy to look at chemistry issues and to help nail down the final roster spots.

Due to Team USA already having qualified for London coupled with the strong possibility of an NBA lockout, USA Basketball officials are not planning to have any sort of camp this summer. Colangelo had told FanHouse last November he would like to have a celebration involving the gold medalists off the 2008 and 2010 teams this summer in Las Vegas, and he said Friday that remains a possibility.

For the London Olympics, naming six alternatives does give Team USA some flexibility. Players can be replaced up to 48 hours before the start of the Olympics if there is an injury or what is deemed a legitimate reason.

"Voluntary withdrawal is a lot easier than deciding that a guy's not playing well,'' said USA Basketball executive director Jim Tooley.

The earlier 2012 deadline could make matters tougher if a team such as the Heat, which features 2008 Olympian LeBron James in addition to Wade and Bosh, is in the 2012 Finals. Those players might want to see how they feel after the Finals before making a final commitment. While no Finals schedule has been set for 2012, it's possible a Game 7 could be June 21, 2012 due to such a game often being set for the third Thursday in June.

In 2008, Colangelo was at least able to wait until after the NBA Finals, which ended June 17, before making the Olympic selections. The team was picked June 23.

"I'm just worried about right now,'' Bosh said Friday on whether he had any update on whether he wants to play in London. "(The Olympics in) 2012 is a little ways away. There are so many other things that can happen between now and then. We just have to wait until that time comes to talk about it more thoroughly.''

James has committed to London as have 2008 Olympians Kobe Bryant, Dwight Howard, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul and Deron Williams. Colangelo has said Kevin Durant, star of the 2010 team in Turkey, has a 2012 Olympic spot locked up.

Even though he's not yet officially on the roster, Griffin, who made the All-Star Game as a rookie after missing all of last season due to a knee injury, has to be regarded as a serious candidate for London. Griffin, who told Fanhouse last November he hopes to play in the 2012 Olympics, was invited to training camp last July in Las Vegas but couldn't make it due to his knee not being fully ready.

"Maybe I add Blake Griffin as part of it because he was going to part of it,'' Colangelo said. "But he couldn't participate so he's really in the system. But he's also going to be in the mix.''

The pool of 34 players includes Portland forward LaMarcus Aldridge and Utah forward Al Jefferson, who dropped out of World Championship consideration last summer for what weren't obvious injury reasons. Those two weren't on the 2008 Olympic team, with all those players being told Colangelo they could skip 2010 for whatever reason and it wouldn't be held against them.

Colangelo had told FanHouse last July that Aldridge had hurt his 2012 Olympic chances by dropping out. But Colangelo said Friday that Aldridge, who is having a breakout season, and Jefferson are in as good of a standing as anybody on the roster.

"I'm a happy guy,'' Colangelo said.

Colangelo, though, is less happy about having an earlier roster deadline for the 2012 Olympics.

[CKR13]

Meaning, USA Basketball Chairman Jerry Colangelo and Head coach Mike Krzyzewski will name the 15 man or 12 man squad even before the NBA Season is over. It is looking like the first challenge for Team USA's Gold Medal defense on the tournament is adjusting as well as synchronizing basketball preparations for the said tournament.

Also, Team USA has cancelled the showcase for 2011 regarding the future of Team USA 2012 due to the impending NBA Lock-Out.

http://nba.fanhouse.com/2010/11/05/colangelo-plans-gathering-of-2008-and-2010-team-usa-gold-medalis/

[JGX]

US will play a pre-Olympic game in Manchester, as part of a deal that will also see WNBA and NBA games:
http://www.usabasketball.com/mens/national/usa_mnt_manchester2012.html

[LuisBrosso]

My list would be:

C: Dwight Howard, Andrew Bynum, Brook Lopez, Kevin Love, Kendrick Perkins

PF: Amar´e Stoudemire, Chris Bosh, LaMarcus Aldridge, Blake Griffin, Josh Smith

SF: LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony, Rudy Gay, Gerald Wallace

SG: Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, Brandon Roy, Joe Johnson, Tyreke Evans

PG: Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Derrick Rose, Russell Westbrook, Rajon Rondo

Greetings

[Sitting Bull]

Williams | Rondo | Rose
Wade | Gordon
James | Durant | Anthony
Aldridge | Griffin
Howard | Chandler/Odom

Switch Rondo with paul if he is healthy at that point.

[CKR13]

New Jersey Nets point guard Deron Williams expressed interest on re-joining the National Team for the 2012 London Olympics Basketball Tournament. Williams confirmed of his possible participation during an interview with The Associated Press (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/2011-03-02-williams-nets-london_N.htm) in London as the New Jersey Nets will play the Toronto Raptors for the NBA London Games 2011.

Williams said:


"I plan to be back over here for the Olympics. Hopefully get my second gold medal."

[CKR13]

Los Angeles Clippers rookie sensation Blake Griffin again, reminded everyone that he is interested to play for Team USA on the 2012 London Olympics.

http://aol.sportingnews.com/nba/story/2011-03-10/blake-griffin-a-longshot-for-team-usa-in-2012

[JGX]

US will play a pre-Olympic game in Manchester, as part of a deal that will also see WNBA and NBA games:
http://www.usabasketball.com/mens/national/usa_mnt_manchester2012.html

US men and women will both face GB in Manchester:
http://www.usabasketball.com/mens/national/usa_mnt_GB_game.html

[Jenney001]

yes,....:D:p

[Federoy]

US men and women will both face GB in Manchester:
http://www.usabasketball.com/mens/national/usa_mnt_GB_game.html

I'm not surprise at this news. FIBA and the NBA have been trying to make inroads into the British market for years, so what better way than to schedule an exhibition game against the host country's men's and women's NTs.

[jenny433]

I was looking forward for Brandon Roy joining Team USA this summer. But maybe next year. His shooting and offensive capabilities will be an asset for Team USA on the 2-guard spot.

Naah...NBA vets said it best. He needs to develop his game more instead of relying on transitional alleyoops and dunks. I am not confident in his shoo

[CKR13]

Naah...NBA vets said it best. He needs to develop his game more instead of relying on transitional alleyoops and dunks. I am not confident in his shoo

Naah... For a spammer adding links to your site via signature, you haven't seen Roy play. :D

[CKR13]

USA Basketball and NIKE have struck an accord of extension for NIKE to continue sponsoring and being the outfitter for Team USA until the end of 2016 which is the 2016 (Brazil) Rio De Janeiro Olympics.

http://www.bizjournals.com/portland/news/2011/04/11/nike-olympic-deal-extended-through-2016.html

[CKR13]

With the way Zach Randolph is playing as of late, maybe USA Basketball is watching. Randolph is on his prime and will be a valuable addition for Team USA in the London Olympics.

Last year, Randolph hoped that he would get an invite for Team USA as he told SLAM Magazine (http://www.slamonline.com/online/nba/2010/12/zach-randolph-wants-to-play-for-team-usa/) about suiting up for Team USA in London.

[mvblair]

With the way Zach Randolph is playing as of late, maybe USA Basketball is watching. Randolph is on his prime and will be a valuable addition for Team USA in the London Olympics.

Last year, Randolph hoped that he would get an invite for Team USA as he told SLAM Magazine (http://www.slamonline.com/online/nba/2010/12/zach-randolph-wants-to-play-for-team-usa/) about suiting up for Team USA in London. Right now, I guess we have Dwight Howard, Kevin Love and Tyson Chandler are our centers. I think Randolph plays a lot like Love, but I haven't really seen Love play much. I just get the impression that they are both not very athletic but extremely good at using their wide hips to move opponents.

That's not a bad thing. Having similar players can be helpful. It makes running plays a lot easier.

Howard is somebody I'm not sure about. Didn't he get into terrible foul trouble?

[sinobball]

I don't think they are similar. Love has range, but is not the creator Randolph is. He's a better rebounder though and plays more inside. Love is more valuable than Team USA because he plays in a system, can pass and doesn't demand the ball in his hands to score. Z-Bo needs the ball and that is not what Team USA needs.

[mvblair]

I don't think they are similar. Love has range, but is not the creator Randolph is. He's a better rebounder though and plays more inside. Love is more valuable than Team USA because he plays in a system, can pass and doesn't demand the ball in his hands to score. Z-Bo needs the ball and that is not what Team USA needs. That makes senses to me. I think you're right that Randolph does need the ball quite a bit. Even though he's been very effective when he as the ball, I think he'll get a lot more turnovers in the FIBA game. So, I think you're right that he probably shouldn't get too much consideration for the NT.

[JGX]

Spain-US in Barcelona next summer?

[nader7]

My US NT pick:

Starters:
Howard
James
Bryant
Wade
Rose

Bench:
Love
Bosh
Durant
Anthony
Rondo

Paul
B. Griffin

[NorCal]

Spain-US in Barcelona next summer?

Is there a rumor stating this?

[JGX]

Is there a rumor stating this?

Yes. On the internet now.
http://www.mundodeportivo.com/20110605/baloncesto/espana-estados-unidos-partidazo-en-bcn_54166368793.html

[CKR13]

I like the premise of the article where twenty years later after the dream team, the current Team USA will feature James, Durant, Howard and the veteran Bryant. But still fails to have the aura of the original Dream Team.

Let's wait for USAB to announce it.

[Federoy]

I like the premise of the article where twenty years later after the dream team, the current Team USA will feature James, Durant, Howard and the veteran Bryant. But still fails to have the aura of the original Dream Team.

Let's wait for USAB to announce it.

I'm surprise some media outlets are still using the "Dream Team" moniker when referring to contemporary US NTs. Today's players have been trying to distance themselves from such titles.

I guess for historical reasons, with the 20th anniversary of the Dream Team's Olympic run in mind, Mundo is building the 2012 USA/Spain match-up in Barcelona as a redux from the past, with Spain obviously being much improved as a basketball playing nation. I'm always reluctant to see the top teams compete against each other before a major tournament. I would prefer they meet in a serious contest and not in an exhibition with fainting strategies and half-hearted effort so as to not get injuried.

If the US needs to schedule serious training games, why not play in the Acropolis Cup, Diamond Ball, or Stankovic Cup?, three of the tougher preparation tournaments out there.

[CKR13]

I'm surprise some media outlets are still using the "Dream Team" moniker when referring to contemporary US NTs. Today's players have been trying to distance themselves from such titles.

I guess the moniker of the "Dream Team" will stick so long as USA Basketball sends the collection of NBA Superstars. While the WC Team USA 2010 Roster that Team USA was not referred to as the dream team due to lack of star power thereof.


I guess for historical reasons, with the 20th anniversary of the Dream Team's Olympic run in mind, Mundo is building the 2012 USA/Spain match-up in Barcelona as a redux from the past, with Spain obviously being much improved as a basketball playing nation. I'm always reluctant to see the top teams compete against each other before a major tournament. I would prefer they meet in a serious contest and not in an exhibition with fainting strategies and half-hearted effort so as to not get injuried.

I agree, this is an overhyped match-up of Team USA and Spain. Sure we may get highlight dunks from time to time but the competition itself will be minimal. Both Team USA and Spain will not even go all out (save that for the Olympics) and both will not even show their cards as expected.


If the US needs to schedule serious training games, why not play in the Acropolis Cup, Diamond Ball, or Stankovic Cup?, three of the tougher preparation tournaments out there.

I too would like for Team USA to play serious and competitive tune ups. Those are actually watchable. Sometimes I get the feeling that the preparatory games are more inclined to sponsorship events like NIKE.

[ItsBball]

usa goes home

[NorCal]

I was reevaluating who I would like to see on the U.S. team for next year. Here are my current picks:

Starters:
Paul
Wade
James
Durant
Howard

Bench:
Rose
Williams
Bryant
Anthony
Griffin
Bosh

Even though it appears Rose is a better overall player than Paul right now, I would lean to starting Paul because I think he is a better distributor and a better outside shooter, both of which the starting five would need.

I feel pretty strongly right now about those 11 but I struggle with who to put in that final spot. The team doesn't need any more ball handlers so Rondo would be out. It would seem that it could use one more true center but the U.S. team has done fine carrying one true center for both the '08 Olympics and the '10 W.C. Stoudemire would seem to be the popular choice but I think he essentially brings the same things to the table that Griffin does (although Griffin, I think is a better rebounder and Stoudemire may be a better shooter).

Therefore, I would lean towards either Love, Igoudala or perhaps even a veteran like Garnett or Duncan. I think Love was criminally underused for the '10 W.C. team. He can bring toughness, rebounding and 3 pt shooting plus he doesn't need the ball to be effective, which is key on a team like this where everyone is used to having plays run for them. Igoudala, I thought, was the key individual defender for the '10 W.C. team and is one of the best defenders in the NBA today. He can typically guard 2s, 3s or 4s in the international game. Finally, although Garnett or Duncan wouldn't accept invites, perhaps they would bring that necessary fire or veteran leadership and be happy to mentor and be a part of what could be one of the best teams the U.S. has put together.

[thegreekmeister]

I'm surprise some media outlets are still using the "Dream Team" moniker when referring to contemporary US NTs. Today's players have been trying to distance themselves from such titles.

I guess for historical reasons, with the 20th anniversary of the Dream Team's Olympic run in mind, Mundo is building the 2012 USA/Spain match-up in Barcelona as a redux from the past, with Spain obviously being much improved as a basketball playing nation. I'm always reluctant to see the top teams compete against each other before a major tournament. I would prefer they meet in a serious contest and not in an exhibition with fainting strategies and half-hearted effort so as to not get injuried.

If the US needs to schedule serious training games, why not play in the Acropolis Cup, Diamond Ball, or Stankovic Cup?, three of the tougher preparation tournaments out there.

So are you saying that there are no top teams in these 3 tournaments?

[Dtown]

So are you saying that there are no top teams in these 3 tournaments?

No he's saying those are tough tournaments and would make better preparation for the team.

[CKR13]

I would pick to start Paul over Rose too at this point as Paul is far more efficient than Rose.

[CKR13]

It is times like this (NBA Lockout) that I am thankful that Team USA lead by Durant won at the FIBA WC in Turkey. Imagine if they fail, who would we send to the FIBA Americas?

Anyways, we're booked for London.

[Federoy]

So are you saying that there are no top teams in these 3 tournaments?

I'm saying just the opposite. I would rather the US play in a mini-tournament like the Acropolis Cup or SuperCup with serious competition than compete against Spain in a single, meaningless friendly where nobody wants to get hurt or reveal strategies. If my statements sounded confusing, my apologies.

[Chuck Diesel]

My early pick for a 2012 roster

Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook
Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, Eric Gordon
Lebron James, Carmelo Anthony
Kevin Durant, Blake Griffin
Dwight Howard, Kevin Love

[NorCal]

My early pick for a 2012 roster

Deron Williams, Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook
Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, Eric Gordon
Lebron James, Carmelo Anthony
Kevin Durant, Blake Griffin
Dwight Howard, Kevin Love

No Rose on your team, Chuck D?

[CKR13]

ESPN: Olympics? Lockout issue for Team USA (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?page=TeamUSA-Lockout-110712)

[mvblair]

ESPN: Olympics? Lockout issue for Team USA (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?page=TeamUSA-Lockout-110712) Interesting article. It seems to say that if the lockout continues, agents and the union will encourage players to stay off Team USA. I understand that agents want to prevent injuries, but why would the union tell players not to play?

[CKR13]

USA Basketball Chairman Jerry Colangelo said in an interview with ESPN (http://espn.go.com/olympics/story/_/id/6767302/jerry-colangelo-check-us-players-2012-london-olympics-soon) that he plans to contact the players on the 2008-2012 pool within the next few months to gauge their interests in regards to playing in the London Olympics. He also stated that USA Basketball is preparing for various scenarios that the lockout could bring.

Colangelo also stated that Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin could be a potential to the pool.

Meanwhile, Miami HEAT shooting guard Dwyane Wade told the Miami Herald (http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/07/14/2312660/miami-heats-dwyane-wade-addresses.html) that he is still non-committal of playing for Team USA. Wade said that the contributing factors are his health with his age, the NBA Lockout and the future of the Miami HEAT with him.

[mattduke1]

Would love to see Griffin in the Olympics.

[chimeara27]

Hopefully this will not affect the USA Basketball in whole.

[CKR13]

I would love the idea of the NBA and USA Basketball to alter the 2012 NBA All-Star Game (If there is one next season). The game will pit the Members of Team USA versus a combined Eastern and Western Conference All Stars. Like what the WNBA did last season.

The said exhibition game will help a bit though, given that the London Olympics leaves a very short time for the usual training camp and exhibition games for Team USA.

[CKR13]

Interesting read from CBSSports about Team USA, the players and the consequences of the NBA Lockout if it devours the NBA Season.

NBA lockout threatens 2012 USA Olympics team? (http://www.cbssports.com/mcc/blogs/entry/22748484/30924718)

[CKR13]

Dream Team II?

The London 2012 Olympics will represent the 20th anniversary of the original 1992 Dream Team – heretofore considered the most talented Olympic team ever assembled – in Barcelona that helped transform basketball globally. The 2012 team has the potential to be even better.

Remember, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird and Chris Mullin were at the end of their careers in 1992, and consider the roster the United States could bring to England next year. Take Carlos Boozer, Michael Redd and an aging Jason Kidd off the 2008 gold medal roster and add Kevin Durant, Derrick Rose and any one of several burgeoning young stars for the bench, like Kevin Love or Blake Griffin.

[Related: Best Olympic athlete in each continent]

Kobe Bryant will be the oldest American player at 33, but he’s still a world-class talent and remains the United States’ most trusted player come tough spots late in games.

As the United States searches for a motivation to play together, and play well, they no longer have the easy sell of 2008: Get back the gold medal. This is why the 20th anniversary comes at such an opportune time for Team USA, because the chance to cement themselves as a forever team could be a useful driving force.

Nevertheless, this team is so talented, will it even matter in the tournament?

-Yahoo Sports (http://sports.yahoo.com/olympics/news;_ylt=Aqd8J1w92td4HIW2hcJ4JLy8vLYF?slug=aw-wojnarowski_basketball_2012olympics_072611)

[CKR13]

Kobe Bryant wants another Gold Medal (http://www.nba.com/2011/news/features/david_aldridge/08/08/morning-tip-usa-basketball-update/?ls=iref:nbahpt1)

[CKR13]

LeBron James (http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2011/08/08/sports/basketball/AP-BKN-Heat-James-Interview.html?_r=2&partner=rss&emc=rss) and Kobe Bryant (http://www.nba.com/2011/news/features/david_aldridge/08/08/morning-tip-usa-basketball-update/?ls=iref:nbahpt1) have commited for Team USA in the 2012 London Olympics.

[NorCal]

LeBron James (http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/2011/08/08/sports/basketball/AP-BKN-Heat-James-Interview.html?_r=2&partner=rss&emc=rss) and Kobe Bryant (http://www.nba.com/2011/news/features/david_aldridge/08/08/morning-tip-usa-basketball-update/?ls=iref:nbahpt1) have commited for Team USA in the 2012 London Olympics.

That is good, good news. I am stating the obvious here, but by having our two biggest names committing to the Olympics, it greatly increases the chances that all the other big names will commit too.

[CKR13]

No doubt, Team USA 2012 is a combination of the core of the 2008 Olympic team and the 2010 standouts.

[CKR13]

LeBron James of the Miami HEAT re-affirms his commitment for Team USA in next year's London Olympics in an interview with HoopsHype (http://blogs.hoopshype.com/blogs/sierra/2011/08/21/lebron-james-the-week-after-losing-the-finals-was-the-worst-i-ever-had/).

[mbenga]

No doubt, Team USA 2012 is a combination of the core of the 2008 Olympic team and the 2010 standouts.
If Kobe is willing to join the team there are 4 spots available

Barring injuries

Paul
Deron
Kobe
Wade
LeBron
Carmelo
Bosh
Howard

Will more than likely repeat. Then you have Durant and Rose who are also sure bets and 2 spots available for either a shooting specialist (Curry, Gordon??) or 2 big men, Am'a'r'e', Aldridge or even Love would be my bets before Griffin.

[CKR13]

I prefer Eric Gordon over Stephen Curry for my taste. Gordon is a better defender and his athleticism are factors which I like for Team USA.

For the final spot, I will consider Kevin Love due to his efficiency, team play where he can blend well with the cast and his rebounding ofcourse.

[emuemu]

Thanks your comments

[Basketball Owner]

Can you help me fill out USA roster for 2012 Olympics.

1. PG -
2. SG - Kobe Bryant
3. SF - LeBron James
4. PF -
5. C -
6. PG -
7. SG -
8. SF -
9. PF -
10. C -
11.
12.

These 2 commited, which I heard. Anybody else??

[CKR13]

Can you help me fill out USA roster for 2012 Olympics.

1. PG -
2. SG - Kobe Bryant
3. SF - LeBron James
4. PF -
5. C -
6. PG -
7. SG -
8. SF -
9. PF -
10. C -
11.
12.

These 2 commited, which I heard. Anybody else??

Quoting myself on my roll-call for the players who have shown interest from last year.


Centers:

Dwight Howard (Interested)
Tyson Chandler (Interested)
Zach Randolph (Interested)

Forwards:

Carmelo Anthony (Interested)
LeBron James (Interested)
Kevin Durant (Lock)
Blake Griffin (Interested)
Amare Stoudemire (Interested)
Lamar Odom (Interested)

Guards

Chris Paul (Interested)
Derrick Rose (Interested)
Kobe Bryant (Interested)
Brandon Roy (Interested but uncertain due to health concerns)

Unsure:

Dwyane Wade
Chris Bosh
Deron Williams
Kevin Love
Eric Gordon

[Phantim3dx]

seriously zach randolph the guy is nothing but a black hole for a team. im still trying to figure out how he became an inverse of that in memphis.

no to zach randolph!

[NorCal]

seriously zach randolph the guy is nothing but a black hole for a team. im still trying to figure out how he became an inverse of that in memphis.

no to zach randolph!

I think that one will work itself out since, even if he is interested he won't make the team when (hopefully) all the big names commit. I think these core guys will all want to go to one more Olympics together.

[CKR13]

DUKE head coach and Team USA coach Mike Krzyzewski assured the fans that the NBA Lockout will not be a hindrance for Team USA's gold medal hopes in the 2012 London Olympics.

NBA lockout won’t affect US medal hopes (http://gulfnews.com/sport/basketball/nba-lockout-won-t-affect-us-medal-hopes-1.857744)

[CKR13]

Miami HEAT forward Chris Bosh has expressed his interest in playing for Team USA in the London Olympics. Bosh confirmed it during an interview with Sports Illustrated (http://nba-point-forward.si.com/2011/09/03/bosh-talks-team-chemistry-lockout-and-more/?sct=nba_t11_a0)

[CKR13]

In the latest issue of SLAM Magazine, Los Angeles Clippers guard Eric Gordon said in an article that he wants to participate in the London Olympics as a member of Team USA.


http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KHhkT6umfrM/TlhSi5uutyI/AAAAAAAAEWc/ZpaGdmGM6KA/s1600/slam-kicks-14-magazine-rajon-rondo-2011-cover-580x800.jpg

[Raze Lupin]

Watching Eurobasket and FIBA Americas has me pumped for USA basketball! :D Before i get started lets have a moment of silence for Serbia, Turkey, Germany, Italy. Serbia and Turkey in particular would have made the competition stronger for the USA. Rest in peace guys you will be missed in the Olympic games :( Don't worry Team USA will send you a post card "wish you were here" ;)

So lets look at the known competition:
Europe: 1.Spain, 2.France 3.Great Britain
Americas: 1.Argentina, 2.Brazil
Oceanic: 1.Australia
Africa: 1.Tunisia
Asia: 1.China

Front court match-ups
When I look at Front court match-ups Spain(Brothers Gasol plus brother from another mother Ibaka), France(If they have Joakim Noah, Ronny Turiaf, Ali Traore) and Brazil(especially if they have Nene + Tiago Splitter) pose the most threat. So lets look at centers, forwards first. I'll do guards another time. I think USA needs a 3 headed monster. We need a strong 5 and 4 with a versatile and competent 3. Securing the best front-court is the prime concern! I'm listing the center, power forward and small forward positions. Here is my list.

CENTER
Dwight Howard 26
Tyson Chandler 28
JaVale McGee 23
Brooke Lopez 23
Robin Lopez 23
DeAndre Jordan 23
LeMarcus Aldridge 26
Josh McRoberts 24
Greg Oden 23(yeah i know...I know BUT he could come back this year strong.IF he does he should be in the convo)
Roy Hibbert 24
Cole Aldrich 22
Andrew Bynum 23
Kendrick Perkins 23

POWER FORWARD
Kevin Love 23
Amar'e Stoudemire 28 (STATS)
Chris Bosh 27
Blake Griffin 22
Tyler Hansbrough 25 (Psycho T)
Kris Humphries 26
Lamar Odom 31
Zack Randolph (Z-Bo) 30
Andre Igudola (Iggy) 27
David Lee 27
Al Jefferson 26

SMALL FORWARD
Kevin Durant 22
LeBron James 26
Gordan Haywood 21
Carmelo Anthony 26
Rudy gay 25 (he's back)
Channing Frye 27
Chase Budinger 23

There is a lot to choose from here. One could easily make 3 teams here. Keeping match-ups in mind, here is who I'm going with for the starters:
Center
Dwight Howard no explanation needed.
Bench
Tyson Chandler Defense and rebounding nuff said on that

Kevin Love I listed him as PF BUT he played in the middle sometimes in 2010 WC. I think he can back up both. I expect starter minutes from this guy.

Javale McGee defense Rebounding and now....scoring


Power Forward
Amar'e Stoudemire (if healthy)He poses both a defensive and offensive threat. He is aggressive in an intelligent way. STATS is my first option. Has strong rebounding.
Bench
Chris Bosh Offensively he is amazing. His position defense is good. I'm worried how he'd guard against Pau, marc and Noah. His rebounding is strong. he lacks aggression.

Kevin Love yeah I know he's on here twice but he needs to be on the team...Either center or PF. we need his rebounds and scoring.

Blake Griffin It makes me smile when I think of watching International guys try to defend or box him out. Remember when Vince carter jumped over that French dude back in 2000?? Please Blake make it happen!

Tyler Hansbrough Psycho T is an amazing player. Absolutely deadly from most anywhere within the perimeter. has strong basket moves and rebounding. From what I've seen he should go before Blake.

SMALL FORWARD
Kevin Durant no explanation needed.
Bench

LeBron James His attitude has improved over the years. Still i don't like the guy for some reason. I don't hate him BUT I wouldn't want him on my Knicks. Still he deserves to be here. Just don't put him in the 4th quarter

Rudy gay He is back and healthy for now. Great shooter and rebounder. Plays good D.

Gordon Hayward If this is his break out year like I think it will be then let this guy on the team.


EDIT: I added JOSH McROBERTS he's a good role player and athletic. He can jump through the roof...
EDIT2: ROY HIBBERT was also added. He is becoming a very reliable player.:D:D

OK now for the point guards and shooting guards. Here is a list of potential players for the 1 and 2 positions. I listed all players that have USA basketball experience either on the final roster or training camp(s). As you can see there are many guards to choose from.

POINT GUARD(S)
Jason Kidd 38
Chauncey Billups 35
Deron Williams 27
Chris Paul 26
Rajon Rando 26
Ty Lawson 23
Raymond Felton 27
Russel Westbrook 22
Derrick Rose 22
Jimmer Fredette 22
Stephen Curry 23
Kemba Walker 21
Kyrie Irving 18
John Wall 21
Brandon Jennings 22

SHOOTING GUARD
Kobe Bryant 34
Dwayne Wade 29
Monta Ellis 25
Brandon Roy 27
James Harden 22
Jeff Green 22
Danny Granger 28
Eric Gordon 22
Tyreke Evans 23
Joe Johnson 30

I'd really like to see some of these young guys get a chance but this is unlikely

[Raze Lupin]

I think the lockout will have little effect on who we send to the Olympics. Everyone wants to play for the Oly games. All the big sponsors are in. I'm sure private donations and grant money is available if needed.
We(USA) have high player interest, funding and fan support. NBA or no NBA, USA will be there and we will be strong. I'm not concerned about a few players not showing up. Players like D Howard, Durant, Kobe, Chris Paul, Amar'e Stoudemire seem 100% committed. Some have been quoted as saying they will be there regardless of a lockout. Just having D.Howard, Kobe, Durant, Chris Paul, LeBron alone gives us a punchers chance. Almost everyone on my list has been affiliated with USA basketball.

I'd like to see a four team USA tourney! have a red, white, blue and a Stars&Stripes team. You could make 4 great teams out of that list.

[CKR13]

What intrigues is Dwyane Wade's uncertainty of suiting up. But the big reliever is Kobe Bryant's commitment but what needs to be addressed is the back-up shooting guard role where Wade would have been solid on both offense and defense.

If Wade does not suit up, I'll vouch for Eric Gordon. A strong 6'3 guard who is athletic, can shoot the long range and is a tough, disciplined perimeter defender.

[Raze Lupin]

What intrigues is Dwyane Wade's uncertainty of suiting up. But the big reliever is Kobe Bryant's commitment but what needs to be addressed is the back-up shooting guard role where Wade would have been solid on both offense and defense.

If Wade does not suit up, I'll vouch for Eric Gordon. A strong 6'3 guard who is athletic, can shoot the long range and is a tough, disciplined perimeter defender.

That is an interesting dilemma. When Kobe and Wade are on the same team they create a type of competitive synergy that elevates both their play. If Wade is not available then Eric Gordon tops the list. He's been their before and won gold. I will add with all of USA's scoring weapons the shooting guard doesn't have to be a prolific scorer. Defense is needed more than offense. I still can't pick a better back-up sg than Eric Gordon. My shooting guard list was the shortest.

SHOOTING GUARD
Kobe Bryant 34
Dwayne Wade 29
Monta Ellis 25
Brandon Roy 27
James Harden 22
Jeff Green 22
Danny Granger 28
Eric Gordon 22
Tyreke Evans 23
Joe Johnson 30

If you put a gun to my head I'd say James Harden or Jeff Green. I think either of those guys would do well. They make great role players.

Edit: Joe Johnson because he's redic....

[CKR13]

That is an interesting dilemma. When Kobe and Wade are on the same team they create a type of competitive synergy that elevates both their play. If Wade is not available then Eric Gordon tops the list. He's been their before and won gold. I will add with all of USA's scoring weapons the shooting guard doesn't have to be a prolific scorer. Defense is needed more than offense. I still can't pick a better back-up sg than Eric Gordon. My shooting guard list was the shortest.

SHOOTING GUARD
Kobe Bryant 34
Dwayne Wade 29
Monta Ellis 25
Brandon Roy 27
James Harden 22
Jeff Green 22
Danny Granger 28
Eric Gordon 22
Tyreke Evans 23

If you put a gun to my head I'd say James Harden or Jeff Green. I think either of those guys would do well. They make great role players.

Good list. For my part, I would elevate the ever improving Harden above Monta Ellis. Harden has strength and an improved jump shot. Last summer, Harden worked hard on improving his defense.

While I am not sure on how Brandon Roy would be of consideration as I am more worried about his health and future.

Tyreke Evans can be ignored at this point but come 2013, I would consider Evans and maybe Shabazz Muhammad or Austin Rivers.

[UMUT_FB_LAL]

What are you guys worrying about? USA will win with its eyes closed.
Unless you guys wanna break a point differential record or something. :D

[Raze Lupin]

Good list. For my part, I would elevate the ever improving Harden above Monta Ellis. Harden has strength and an improved jump shot. Last summer, Harden worked hard on improving his defense.

While I am not sure on how Brandon Roy would be of consideration as I am more worried about his health and future.

Tyreke Evans can be ignored at this point but come 2013, I would consider Evans and maybe Shabazz Muhammad or Austin Rivers.

Do you know who we're forgetting?? In the way of shooting guards...JOE JOHNSON I know he's terribly over paid BUT that doesn't mar the fact that he is a great player. He is an excellent perimeter shooter, rebounder can pass. Joe does it all. He may be better on the list than anybody not named Kobe or Wade. His career stats are sick...

[Raze Lupin]

What are you guys worrying about? USA will win with its eyes closed.
Unless you guys wanna break a point differential record or something. :D

USA can not afford to be complacent. We will miss great teams like Serbia and Turkey BUT Lietuva, France, Spain, Russia, Brazil, Argentina will all be there. All of those teams can beat USA. So we have to give 100%

This what I'm worried about:
Spain: 1)front-court ability and 2)Navarro sharp shooting. They have superior high low post passing. Plus great shooters

France: Amazing guards that can dribble penetrate, pass or finish. Great Front-court passing. great perimeter shooting.

Brazil: Brazil plays a very unique American style that throws USA off. With Tiago and Nene in the front-court plus their intelligent passing they can beat USA. They have shooters. fast athletic guards.

Argentina: FIBA Americas champs! They can ball no need for an explanation.

Lietuva: At full strength with Captain Linas Kleiza, Jonas V. Martynas Pocius, Lietuva will be dangerous.

Greece: was missing 8 players during Eurobasket. You can't sleep on Greece.

Russia: Will play USA strong as well like they did in 2010 WC. They have the bodies to do it.


Any of the teams mentioned can beat a non focused USA team. Teams like Spain, France, Brazil can beat USA at its best. This will not be an easy Olympics for USA.

[NorCal]

Good list. For my part, I would elevate the ever improving Harden above Monta Ellis. Harden has strength and an improved jump shot. Last summer, Harden worked hard on improving his defense.

While I am not sure on how Brandon Roy would be of consideration as I am more worried about his health and future.

Tyreke Evans can be ignored at this point but come 2013, I would consider Evans and maybe Shabazz Muhammad or Austin Rivers.

I would choose Harden over Monta Ellis as well. Ellis is very ball dominant on a team of ball dominant players like the USA team, and he is not as talented or efficient as the other ball dominant guards/wings.

I think Wade will commit when he realizes that this will may be his last chance to go the Olympics. In fact, I really think all the big names will commit for one last tournament together and then they will disband and allow the younger guys to come in and play at the '14 World Championships and '16 Olympics.

I've mentioned this before but here are my picks. If everyone chooses to try out for the team I think there are essentially 10 'locks':

Starters:
Paul
Bryant
James
Durant
Howard

Bench:
Williams
Rose
Wade
Anthony
Bosh

Those guys would probably take the majority of the minutes. I think the 11th spot will go to Griffin and the 12th spot to either Love, Igoudala or Eric Gordon, depending on what Coach K thinks they need most- rebounding, toughness and another big man (Love), another great wing defender who can run the fastbreak (Igoudala) or a wing defender and outside shooter (Gordon).

I think the only way any of the other guys mentioned in the posts above- Joe Johnson, Javale McGee, John Wall (future PG for the USA team), Tyreke Evans, Rudy Gay- make the team is if one of the guys I mentioned does not commit.

[Raze Lupin]

Here is an article by Kurt Helin Sep 24, 2011, 12:30 PM EDT on the potential USA team. I have to say I mostly agree with this situation. part of me wishes USA could have 2 different teams go. We have to many forwards and point guards for only one team.

http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/09/24/who-will-be-on-team-usa-for-2012-london-olympics/



Mike Krzyzewski — head coach of Team USA — has some brutal choices ahead of him next summer.

Team USA is in the 2012 London Olympics and will come in the heavy favorite, but there are some other very good teams out there that could push the USA — Spain and Argentina come to mind, veteran squads with plenty of NBA-level talent.

So who will make up the 12 man USA roster for London?

First, there are the guys who won gold in 2008 and should be given spots now: Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, Deron Williams, Dwight Howard and Chris Bosh. (I know a bunch of you just shook your head at Bosh, but there are few bigs as skilled as him and his more finesse game works well in international ball).

That’s eight of the 12 spots.

Kevin Durant, after leading Team USA to the gold at the FIBA World Championships gets a spot for sure. So just three seats left.

Chris Sheridan (former AP and ESPN writer) makes an interesting point at his site.

You can also set aside a spot for Blake Griffin, who has been described to SheridanHoops.com by people in the know as a shoo-in for the London 2012 roster.

That’s 10 of the 12. And for you counting at home, there are two point guards, two shooting guards, three small forwards, two power forwards and one center on the list (although it is more flexible than that, someone like LeBron or Durant can play the two, three or four spot depending on the lineup, and LeBron and ‘Melo were often used at the four in 2008).

Sheridan makes another good point — the USA needs to bring a bigger team to London than they did Beijing. The reason is Spain, the USA’s most serious competition for the gold, which has gotten bigger and better since 2008. Spain still has Pau Gasol, but his brother Marc had not even played in the NBA in 2008 but now is both improved and makes a fantastic high-low combination with his brother. Spain also now brings Serge Ibaka off the bench for help and they may have recent Rockets draft pick s Nikola Mirotic, who is 6’10”. They have size.

Sheridan says based on their play at the World Championships, Lamar Odom and Kevin Love have to be the candidates for another big spot. Love brings rebounding, outlet passes and can stretch the floor with his shooting, but his defense has been an issue. Odom can do just about anything, his game is very versatile.

So you pick one of them. That’s 11.

Now for the 12th spot do you go with another big — maybe Tyson Chandler, but Amar’e Stoudemire and LaMarcus Aldridge are considerations — or do you go with speed and Derrick Rose? It’s hard to leave Rose off the team, but do you put him on in place of Deron Williams to so you can go with size or do you bring three quality point guards and try to run teams into the ground? If you are going to go with speed, Russell Westbrook has to be considered as well.

There are no easy choices for Mike Krzyzewski next summer. There is plenty of talent to choose from, but what really matters is fit. That has to be the key.

[Raze Lupin]

Here is another similar article written by Chris Sheridian who was sited by Kurt Helin. Here Sheridian maps out how he believes Spain can beat team USA.

http://sheridanhoops.com/2011/09/23/who-will-play-for-team-usa-in-2012/



Who will play for Team USA in 2012?
September 23, 2011 By Chris Sheridan 37 Comments
By Chris Sheridan
And the first pertinent sub-question on that topic: Who will the big guys be? As in big and tall.
Dwight Howard is the first name on that list, because like most of the 2008 Redeem Team, he has earned the right to defend the gold medal he won in Beijing.
Ditto Chris Bosh.
The same goes for Carmelo Anthony, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Kobe Bryant, and maybe to a slightly lesser degree to Chris Paul and Deron Williams.
You can also set aside a spot for Blake Griffin, who has been described to SheridanHoops.com by people in the know as a shoo-in for the London 2012 roster.
And another will go to Kevin Durant, the MVP of the 2010 World Championship team. The spot is his for the taking if he wants it.
That right there gives you 10 guys, leaving only two spots up for grabs from the current 35-man roster listed on USA Basketball’s Website from which Griffin is conspicuously absent.
And that brings us back to the big man question, because the Americans are going to need one or two more to effectively defend the front line of Spain, which won EuroBasket on Sunday night with a roster that includes Pau and Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka. (Also, the Spanish team is expected to add another big for next summer. He is Nikola Mirotic, who was selected 23rd in last June’s draft by the Houston Rockets, and whose rights were subsequently dealt to Minnesota and then Chicago. Mirotic is a 6-foot-10 power forward from Montenegro but is a naturalized Spanish citizen who plays professionally for Real Madrid. Last year, he won the Euroleague’s rising star award, then averaged over 27 points per game in July to win the MVP award at the FIBA Under-20 European championship.)
Team USA coach was able to get away with using James and Anthony as his power forwards in Beijing when Team USA defeated Spain 118-107 in the gold medal game.
But the new and improved Spanish team, as much as they prefer to play up-tempo, could choose to slow the pace against the Americans in London to take advantage of their one distinct advantage — offensive talent in the low post. If they continually pound the ball inside to the Gasols, and if Howard and/or Bosh get into foul trouble (remember, FIBA only allows five fouls, not six like the NBA), there needs to be a second line of defense.
So let’s find at least two bigs for the Americans.
In my book, one of them has to be Kevin Love, who was the most productive American player on a per-minute basis on the 2010 team aside from Durant. To me, he is a no-brainer pick. But to coach Mike Krzyzewski, he might not be. Krzyzewski used Love quite sparingly in Istanbul, choosing instead to attack each opponent with speed and athleticism (his key rotation players were Durant, Derrick Rose, Russell Westbrook, Andre Iguodala, Lamar Odom Rudy Gay and Eric Gordon.)
Odom played center in Istanbul ahead of Tyson Chandler, and was a key factor — so much of a key that he probably should be listed with Love as candidates 1 and 1A for two of those last two spots on the 2012 team.
Would Howard, Bosh, Love and Odom be enough? Against every other team, the answer is probably yes.
Against Spain, it is debatable.
Assuming Love or Odom goes, that brings us to the 12th spot.
If you want to take an extra big, the candidates would have to include Chandler, LaMarcus Aldridge and Kendrick Perkins. (You must excise Amare Stoudemire from consideration because the New York Knicks would probably not allow him to play. In 2010, they pulled him off the roster on the night before camp began).
If you want to take an extra shooter, Eric Gordon and Stephen Curry definitely have earned the right to be atop the list because of what they brought to the team in Turkey in 2010.
If you want a third point guard, 2010 Team USA members Russell Westbrook and Derrick Rose are your guys (in fact, it’ll be interesting to see whether either of them can beat out Paul and/or Williams at training camp next summer in Las Vegas).
There probably will not be room for the type of glue guy (someone akin to what Jason Kidd was in Beijing and what Chauncey Billups was in Istanbul) Krzyzewski has liked to have around since taking over as the national team coach in 2005, although Odom somewhat fits that profile.
So, who should Team USA take to London? At this point, my best guess is that the roster looks like this:
C – Howard, Bosh, Odom.
PF – Anthony, Griffin, Love.
SF – Durant, James.
SG – Bryant, Wade.
PG – Williams, Paul.
Enough to defeat Spain? Remember, only five of those guys can be on the court at the same time.

[NorCal]

The articles Raze posted are interesting because they do bring up the question of whether the USA changes its roster to match a single team that they see as their biggest competition- Spain- or do you go with a roster to fit the style of play that you had for '08 and '10- a roster built on speed, ball pressure and athleticism on the guard and forward spots.

Or perhaps they can do split the difference by taking the core from the '08 team and adding an extra big or two? If you do that, then you may be leaving the reigning NBA MVP off the team.

It will be interesting to see what Coach K decides.

[CKR13]

Do you know who we're forgetting?? In the way of shooting guards...JOE JOHNSON I know he's terribly over paid BUT that doesn't mar the fact that he is a great player. He is an excellent perimeter shooter, rebounder can pass. Joe does it all. He may be better on the list than anybody not named Kobe or Wade. His career stats are sick...

Yes you are right. We did forget good old Joe. I would consider him too if somehow Wade, Gordon and Harden would not play. First, Johnson will have to be called up by USAB.

I believe Johnson needs redemption after his 2006 World Championship third place finish. Playing with Team USA, I think Johnson will do in offense as an off-guard or if emergency calls it, be shooting forward at the three. Playing with the best players will help his composure wherein he is not pressured to deliver points, thus making him more comfortable to shoot.

Unlike in Atlanta where he is pressured to score. That is if Johnson is called up.

[CKR13]

What are you guys worrying about? USA will win with its eyes closed.
Unless you guys wanna break a point differential record or something. :D

Not quite, France and especially Spain will prove to be quite formidable. Spain gives me the shivers. That is the mentality I hope that Team USA will not develop, the kind wherein we just get in there and expect to win.

I would like us to respect the ever improving opposition and play our best.

[CKR13]

I would choose Harden over Monta Ellis as well. Ellis is very ball dominant on a team of ball dominant players like the USA team, and he is not as talented or efficient as the other ball dominant guards/wings.

I think Wade will commit when he realizes that this will may be his last chance to go the Olympics. In fact, I really think all the big names will commit for one last tournament together and then they will disband and allow the younger guys to come in and play at the '14 World Championships and '16 Olympics.

I've mentioned this before but here are my picks. If everyone chooses to try out for the team I think there are essentially 10 'locks':

Starters:
Paul
Bryant
James
Durant
Howard

Bench:
Williams
Rose
Wade
Anthony
Bosh

Those guys would probably take the majority of the minutes. I think the 11th spot will go to Griffin and the 12th spot to either Love, Igoudala or Eric Gordon, depending on what Coach K thinks they need most- rebounding, toughness and another big man (Love), another great wing defender who can run the fastbreak (Igoudala) or a wing defender and outside shooter (Gordon).

I think the only way any of the other guys mentioned in the posts above- Joe Johnson, Javale McGee, John Wall (future PG for the USA team), Tyreke Evans, Rudy Gay- make the team is if one of the guys I mentioned does not commit.

I hope too that Wade will consider joining the team. I think the main hindrance for Wade is that he would want to cement his legacy in the NBA by delivering a championship to Miami. Since Wade is older than LeBron James and Chris Bosh, Wade acknowledges the wear and tear on his past season when he hits 30 years of age next year. A summer without basketball ensures a prepared Wade for the season.

But if Wade does not commit, I would consider Eric Gordon, James Harden or Joe Johnson back.

My Team USA is:

PG - Paul, Williams, Rose
SG - Bryant, Wade
SF - James, Durant, Anthony
PF - Aldridge, Bosh
C - Howard, Love

A team with good size and athleticism. Will be very potent against Spain and France.

Veterans like Paul and Williams will guide us nicely. Rose is there for the third stringer if we want to up the tempo.

I am satisfied with the two guards of Wade and Bryant. Two of the best shooting guards on the team. In case of emergency, Durant can play the two guard.

The three is very deep with James, Anthony and Durant. All can rebound effectively as well shoot from beyond the arc.

I am also satisfied with Bosh and Aldridge at the four spot. Can hit the outside shot if we use Coach K's Flex Sets.

Howard will man the middle while Love has proven that he can rebound with the best of the world. We can also make Love a PF and Aldridge a C.

[CKR13]

Thanks also for sharing those articles Raze Lupin. They are good reads. Spain is a very formidable and dangerous foe and it will be interesting if Coach K and his staff will build a team aimed at beating the threat that is Spain.

Lots of good players to choose from but I believe wisdom and not insecurity will prevail when Coach K makes a decision.

In the 2010 World Championship, Coach K built a team aimed at no particular foe and it worked. He and Team USA was able to craft the team that he envisioned to win it all. Once again, I have faith in Coach K's judgment.

Looking ahead, imagine the player pool for the future. Rose, Durant, Evans, Griffin, Love and others have not reached their pre-prime status and if we look at the class of 2012, 2013 and 2014, lots of good players coming up. Especially the bigman.

Am excited for Team USA's future.

[NorCal]

Thanks also for sharing those articles Raze Lupin. They are good reads. Spain is a very formidable and dangerous foe and it will be interesting if Coach K and his staff will build a team aimed at beating the threat that is Spain.

Lots of good players to choose from but I believe wisdom and not insecurity will prevail when Coach K makes a decision.

In the 2010 World Championship, Coach K built a team aimed at no particular foe and it worked. He and Team USA was able to craft the team that he envisioned to win it all. Once again, I have faith in Coach K's judgment.

Looking ahead, imagine the player pool for the future. Rose, Durant, Evans, Griffin, Love and others have not reached their pre-prime status and if we look at the class of 2012, 2013 and 2014, lots of good players coming up. Especially the bigman.

Am excited for Team USA's future.

Two good points here made by Claudine- that Coach K built a team in 2010 aimed at no particular foe. I hope he does the same for the '12 Olympics team. I've seen many times where teams have recruited 1-2 players solely for the purpose of meeting and overcoming one other team and there have been many times they don't even meet that team. Coach K's teams have won on speed, ball pressure and strong, quick defensive rotations. I hope he sticks to that plan.

Also, I too am of course excited about Team USA's future. Next years NBA draft should be stocked with American talent and the high school class of 2013 in particular has a lot of great prospects IMO. Like I mentioned in my last post, if the current core wins gold next year I think they will step aside for a new generation- Wall, Griffin, Love, Evans, Curry, etc. should all be stars in the next couple of years.

[Chuck Diesel]

My ideal squad-


Paul, Williams
Bryant, Wade, Eric Gordon
Melo, James
Durant, Griffin
Howard, Love, Chandler

[Sitting Bull]

Griffin is not better than Aldridge by any stretch of the imagination. Not in NBA, and especially not in a predominant halfcourt setting typical for Fiba ball.
I am convinced that Aldridge is the best US PF today.

Best 10-man roster on fiba optimization basis;

Williams, Paul
Wade, Bryant
James, Anthony
Aldridge, Durant, Love (mainly due to 3pt accuracy)
Howard, Aldridge, Love

[Cryotek]

The problem is usually the abundance of talented players in the NBA to choose from...but I'd rather have this kind of problem instead of the opposite!;)
So still USA should be the top choice to win the GOLD again...and another USA vs Spain for the finals.:D

[Raze Lupin]

Blake Griffin is in for the Olympics!!! ON the "10/19 B.S. Report: Blake Griffin" 45 minute Podcast he answers many questions about his life, taste,,personal training,basketball structure,NBA season length being to long, Eric Gordon, Lockout, basketball taste and the Olympics. I have to say I'm impressed with the guys maturity and outlook on life. I am biased though I've known of Blake since he was in high school and we went to the same University. Here is a link for the podcast:

At the end of the interview Blake is asked what does he think about the 2012 Olympics, he said"I would love too play, I would love to play BUT I know there are other players who deserve a spot over me. If they need me I'm there" When asked about the 2010 WC he said "I wanted to play I was recovered(from his injury) but at that time I hadn't played a game for the Clippers yet so.....I would have loved to play for the World Cup or the Olympics. I think that would be the ultimate..."

http://espn.go.com/espnradio/play?id=7122486

[CKR13]

Two good reads on the repercussions in the lockout.

Yahoo Sports: Issues looming for USA Basketball (http://sports.yahoo.com/olympics/news;_ylt=Au3vV61fr3.2F5WT5_IYls.8vLYF?slug=aw-wojnarowski_basketball_2012olympics_072611)

USA Today: Coach K: NBA lockout could impact Olympics (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/story/2011-10-19/NBA-lockout-could-impact-US-Olympic-team/50822580/1?csp=34sports&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+UsatodaycomNba-TopStories+%28Sports+-+NBA+-+Top+Stories%29&utm_content=Google+Reader)

From the article, the players will be announced in spring 2012.

[Raze Lupin]

Good articles! I'm not worried one bit about player availability or money issues due to lockout. If Nike or NBA withdraws other companies can step in. There is no way a lockout will prevent most players from showing up. If NBA forbids coaches then we can use college coaches. If they forbid trainers then we can use college and NFL trainers and therapist. Who wouldn't want to have USA basketball on their resume?

Coach K quote:

"We're going to wait until spring to announce who the 12 players will be on the team. We have a great pool, because everyone wants to play. … We have the world championship team (from last summer), plus (New York Knicks forward Amar'e Stoudemire and (Los Angeles Clippers forward) Blake Griffin. … It will be a good, tough decision to make."

I am worried about preparation time!

"We're obviously really concerned," the Duke Blue Devils' coach said of keeping an eye on the NBA lockout when he was a guest on ESPN Radio's Mike and Mike In the Morning show Wednesday. "What if there isn't a season? What if they expand (the season past June) if they start playing? "We begin (Olympic) practice the 4th or 5th of July. The gold medal game is Aug. 12. If the NBA has to go into July, what does that do for us? If they don't have a season, will they play (in the Olympics)?"

[Raze Lupin]

Exciting news!

Team USA is planning on going on tour! Ok this has nothing to do with USA basketball, officially but I see this as a definite positive for Team USA.

http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/7140585/lockout-nba-world-tour-contracts-place-sources-say


Details of the six-game, four-continent exhibition tour by NBA players set to begin at the end of October have not been finalized, but 14 of the 18 players approached have contractually committed to the tour, sources said, and deals with all 18 are expected to be completed Sunday night.

The list of players approached by Atlanta businessman Cal Darden include reigning NBA MVP Derrick Rose, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, sources said.

The tour is scheduled to start with a game Oct. 30 in Puerto Rico and include two games in London, one in Macau and two, back-to-back, in Australia.

Since news of the tour surfaced last week, nine more players have expressed interest in taking part, a source said, and two more may be added.

A couple of agents with players committed to the tour said on condition of anonymity that they are curious to see how Darden will make gooqud on the contractual promises made.

The players will be paid salaries ranging from six figures up to $1 million, sources have told ESPN The Magazine's Chris Broussard.

Those fees would have to be covered above and beyond insurance, travel and security costs in four foreign locales.

But a source close to the organizers said a news release officially announcing the tour could be distributed as early as Monday.

[Pantheon]

If the NBA does not get their lockout issue solved soon it could have a negative impact on Team USA and the 2012 Olympics overall.

ESPN is claiming that David Stern wants to play the whole season and not have a short season like in 1998-99. He wants to play all the way into August if need be, according to ESPN claims.

This would obviously have a big impact on Team USA, and also could impact other countries that have NBA players. Of course, if the lockout continues on for awhile then this scenario is unlikely to happen.

[rocketstar47]

My Prediction

GOLD MEDAL GAME

USA 110 vs FRANCE 86

BRONZE MEDAL GAME

ARGENTINA 75 vs SPAIN 78

[Vinc3]

Hope Iguodala will play, but I'm pretty sure LeBron will take his place this year =(

[CKR13]

Hope Iguodala will play, but I'm pretty sure LeBron will take his place this year =(

Iguodala had a good stint with the 2010 World Championship Roster. The 2012 could be the last of the 2K generation as the likes of Wade and LeBron James will step aside for the new generation to have their turn.

I think Iguodala will still be considered for the pool in the future due to the high demand for veteran leadership.

[UMUT_FB_LAL]

Lebron would still be just 31 in the 2016 Olympics

[CKR13]

Age is but one factor among many where NBA super stars moving into the latter part of their prime years may not or may participate for the National Team.

[NorCal]

Age is but one factor among many where NBA super stars moving into the latter part of their prime years may not or may participate for the National Team.

I agree with you that Lebron, Wade, Bosh, Williams, Paul, Kobe, Carmelo and Dwight Howard would probably all retire from the National Team if we win gold next year. If that happens, then all of them have two gold medals and will be moving into their early to mid 30s by 2014-2016. At that point I would imagine they'd let the young guys take over and also may want to take the summers off so they can maintain their bodies and extend their NBA careers.

Anyways, that's just a hunch. The other thing is that by 2014-2016 a number of the guys I just listed won't be the very top players in the league anymore.

[Raze Lupin]

It looks like their is not going to be an NBA season this year. I hope the guys stay in shape for the Olympics.

[CKR13]

I agree with you that Lebron, Wade, Bosh, Williams, Paul, Kobe, Carmelo and Dwight Howard would probably all retire from the National Team if we win gold next year. If that happens, then all of them have two gold medals and will be moving into their early to mid 30s by 2014-2016. At that point I would imagine they'd let the young guys take over and also may want to take the summers off so they can maintain their bodies and extend their NBA careers.

Anyways, that's just a hunch. The other thing is that by 2014-2016 a number of the guys I just listed won't be the very top players in the league anymore.

I myself won't mind the retirement of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony from the National Team. They have been active for the team since their rookie year in 2004 where the three were part of the Athens Team USA squad. Despite not participating in the 2010 World Championships, I cannot ask for more from the three after the 2012 London Olympics.

Chris Bosh, Kobe Bryant, Dwight Howard, Chris Paul and Deron Williams have served good years for the National Team as well and again, I can't demand anything more for them.

With these players stepping aside, I am not worried about future talent in the national team pool. Team USA will have talent.

From the 2010 World Championship, I saw it as a changing of the guard for Team USA.


It looks like their is not going to be an NBA season this year. I hope the guys stay in shape for the Olympics.

If there will be no season, maybe USAB can gather the pool as early as March for a mini camp and pick up the main preparation in May.

[ledzef]

International teams such as Spain and Argentina are one of the worlds giant basketball team but even they assembled their greatest players nothing can stop USA team. I must say USA is the king of basketball. When Kobe is there with Lebron, Durant, Derick Rose, Chris Bosh and Dwight Howard at the starting line-up, USA is unstoppable! Only other could is that to ask for miracle because this will break the record of the First Dream Team!

thats all, Thank you! :D

[Raze Lupin]

International teams such as Spain and Argentina are one of the worlds giant basketball team but even they assembled their greatest players nothing can stop USA team. I must say USA is the king of basketball. When Kobe is there with Lebron, Durant, Derick Rose, Chris Bosh and Dwight Howard at the starting line-up, USA is unstoppable! Only other could is that to ask for miracle because this will break the record of the First Dream Team!

thats all, Thank you! :D


hahaha I hope you are right BUT we'll see. Spain, Argentina, Brazil, Russia, France are all strong teams and all have strong Euroleague and NBA players on there roster.

[carlo]

Exciting news!


http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/7140585/lockout-nba-world-tour-contracts-place-sources-say

Any further news ? Was the tour cancelled ?

[Raze Lupin]

Any further news ? Was the tour cancelled ?


Key players backed out of the campaign. Last I heard, it has been postponed indefinitely.


...Kinda like the NBA season:(

[CKR13]

Miami HEAT guard Dwyane Wade has committed to play for Team USA in next year's London Olympics.

Olympics-Wade decides he is ready to play in London Games (http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/11/11/olympics-basketball-wade-idUSB46604020111111)

From the article, Wade said that this will be his last Olympic stint with Team USA. Wade has been a part of three olympic rosters, from 2004 to 2012.

[Raze Lupin]

Most excellent news!!:D Easily the best news n the last 24 hours!:rolleyes:

[NorCal]

Miami HEAT guard Dwyane Wade has committed to play for Team USA in next year's London Olympics.

Olympics-Wade decides he is ready to play in London Games (http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/11/11/olympics-basketball-wade-idUSB46604020111111)

From the article, Wade said that this will be his last Olympic stint with Team USA. Wade has been a part of three olympic rosters, from 2004 to 2012.

Wonderful! Made my day. He was the best player for us at the '08 Olympics IMO.

[CKR13]

Miami HEAT forward Chris Bosh expressed interest in suiting up for Team USA in the London Olympics.

Bosh takes 'wait and see' attitude for now (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/basketball/nba/wires/11/15/2030.ap.bkn.heat.bosh.0150/)

[Bosnian 23]

If I was Coach K here's what my squad would look like -

Starting Five -

PG - Derrick Rose
SG - Dwayne Wade
SF - Lebron James
PF - Chris Bosh
C - Dwight Howard

Bench -

Chris Paul
Blake Griffin
Brandon Roy
Kevin Durant
Brook Lopez
Carmelo Anthony
Amar'e Stoudemire

[CKR13]

Jim Boeheim is still an assistant coach in Team USA while investigations are ongoing. It is reported that USAB is following the situation closely. A spokesman from USAB confirmed that Boeheim is still an active member of the coaching staff.

If Boeheim is proven guilty, then Mike Krzyzewski could lose his top assistant coach.

[CKR13]

Team USA: The Road to London

o2m66p3M1Dw

[CKR13]

Dwyane Wade stated again that this is the last Olympics for him.

2012 to be Dwyane Wade's last Olympics (http://www.foxsportsflorida.com/01/02/12/2012-to-be-Dwyane-Wades-last-Olympics/landing_heat.html?blockID=637864&feedID=3565)

[CKR13]

USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo said last week that between 18-20 finalists for the final Olympic 12-man roster will be named late this January.

[kgi]

If I was Coach K here's what my squad would look like -

Starting Five -

PG - Derrick Rose
SG - Dwayne Wade
SF - Lebron James
PF - Chris Bosh
C - Dwight Howard

Bench -

Chris Paul
Blake Griffin
Brandon Roy
Kevin Durant
Brook Lopez
Carmelo Anthony
Amar'e Stoudemire


where is kobe?
:>

[CKR13]

January 18, 2012 is the target date wherein the player pool for the United States Basketball National Team intended for the London 2012 Olympics is to be named.


U.S. roster pool to be announced

NEW YORK -- Jerry Colangelo has been speaking to the best American basketball players, asking if they still want to play in the Olympics.

All of them say they do.

The next step is seeing which ones will have the chance.

USA Basketball plans to announce the 18 players who will be candidates for the Olympic team by the middle of this month, Colangelo said Friday.

From LeBron James to Kobe Bryant, Kevin Durant to Derrick Rose, players from the 2008 Olympic champions and 2010 world champions could make up a formidable U.S. squad that should head to London as the overwhelming favorite.

"We have so much talent right now, the pool is extraordinary," Colangelo said.

The final 12-man roster and six alternates must be submitted June 18, before the NBA finals will be complete. But all 18 names have to be given to the U.S. Olympic Committee by the end of January to be placed in the drug program.

Colangelo said the announcement will be made by Jan. 18. He has spent the last few days reaching out to the players' agents, and about the half the players themselves, and all of them reconfirmed their interest in playing.

Quite a difference from the state of U.S. basketball when Colangelo took over in 2005, when the U.S. couldn't find enough players who cared to keep their commitments to play in previous year's Olympics.

"That's behind us now," he said. "We've created a situation where players now desire to be a part of it and so now we have a different set of issues. Now we have more players than a roster can call for."

The roster will be a mixture of the gold medalists from Beijing, and the one that ended the U.S. drought in the world championship with an entirely different roster.

The strength remains the point guards, including Rose, Chris Paul, Deron Williams and Russell Westbrook; and wing players that include the likes of James, Durant, and Carmelo Anthony.

But Colangelo said he will also consider teams the U.S. would have to match up with, mentioning Spain and Brazil among them. Both have quality big men, meaning players such as Kevin Love and Tyson Chandler could get stronger consideration as possible backups to Dwight Howard.

"There's a lot of considerations before we get to the 12, and the good news is all we have to deal with is 18 right now," Colangelo said. "And I think within our group, that group, we have a lot of flexibility and we'll make that determination as best we can come June."

Colangelo has told all the players that for now they are only guaranteed to be part of the final 18.

The biggest challenge facing the Americans, like most countries, could be the schedule. With the lockout meaning the NBA finals could end as late as June 26, there will be no ability to have a tryout camp, and little more than a week before the team has to report to training camp in Las Vegas on July 5. Colangelo said the team will be sensitive those players who had lengthy playoff runs, which could mean extra rest for James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh if Miami gets back to the finals.

"We're preparing as best we can and we will be there's nothing that we will not have prepared for," Colangelo said.

He's also been planning the pre-Olympic schedule, which is expected to send the Americans to Washington and then Barcelona, along with the one exhibition game that has already been announced against Britain in Manchester, England.

"We're really kind of in the homestretch for us as we prepare," Colangelo said.

- ESPN (http://espn.go.com/olympics/basketball/story/_/id/7434133/usa-basketball-announce-18-roster-candidates-middle-january)

[CKR13]

It is reported that Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin is being considered in the pool of national players.

Griffin Being Considered for 2012 Olympics (http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-clippers-fyi-20120108,0,113718.story)

[CKR13]

Portland Trailblazers forward Lamarcus Aldridge is interested in playing for Team USA in the London Olympics.

Hopefully, Aldridge will be among the names in the player pool.

Aldridge Hopes to Play for Team USA (http://www.csnnw.com/pages/landingblazers?LaMarcus-Aldridge-wants-an-Olympic-invit=1&blockID=626856&feedID=5212)

[Chuck Diesel]

My preferred 2012 Olympic Roster-

Chris Paul, Derrick Rose
Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, Eric Gordon
Kevin Durant, Carmelo Anthony
Lebron James, Kevin Love, Blake Griffin
Dwight Howard, Andrew Bynum

[CKR13]

Philadelphia 76ers forward Andre Iguodala is said to be included in the 18 man pool for the National Team. Iguodala was a member of the gold winning Team USA Squad that competed in the 2010 World Championships in Turkey.

76ers F Andre Iguodala a candidate for Team USA (http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/wire?section=oly&id=7438142)

[BrokeJumper]

My 2012 Olympic Team Lineup

Starting Five -

PG - Chris Paul
SG - Kobe Bryant
SF - Kevin Durant
PF - Blake Griffin
C - Dwight Howard

Bench -
Derrick Rose
Lebron James
Kevin Love
Dwyane Wade
Carmelo Anthony
LaMarcus Aldridge
Ray Allen

Alternates:

Rajon Rondo
Monta Ellis
Russell Westbrook
Ryan Anderson
James Harden
David Lee
DeMarcus Cousins
Al Jefferson
John Wall

[CKR13]

Chris Sheridan (http://www.sheridanhoops.com/2012/01/10/exclusive-team-usas-preliminary-roster/) claimed from his sources that the 2012 USA Basketball National Team is as follows:

LaMarcus Aldridge
Carmelo Anthony
Chauncey Billups
Chris Bosh
Kobe Bryant
Tyson Chandler
Kevin Durant
Eric Gordon
Blake Griffin
Dwight Howard
Andre Iguodala
LeBron James
Kevin Love
Lamar Odom
Chris Paul
Derrick Rose
Dwyane Wade
Russell Westbrook
Deron Williams

[CKR13]

It is reported that the national pool of players will contain 20 names. USA Basketball will name the twenty players this morning.

[bukefalos]

This is the best team I have ever seen. (in 92' I'm 8 years old)
They will easily win the olmypics like 2010 world championship

maybe a great zone defence causes some problems but;
starting 5 like

Chris Paul
Kobe
Durant
Love
Howard

is the best answer :)

They can shoot from everywhere
Biggest disadvantage of zone defence is Def. Rebounds.
Love and howard are the best solution in entire world. They are beast of grabbing offensive rebounds.

[Raze Lupin]

This is the best team I have ever seen. (in 92' I'm 8 years old)
They will easily win the olmypics like 2010 world championship

maybe a great zone defence causes some problems but;
starting 5 like

Chris Paul
Kobe
Durant
Love
Howard

is the best answer :)

They can shoot from everywhere
Biggest disadvantage of zone defence is Def. Rebounds.
Love and howard are the best solution in entire world. They are beast of grabbing offensive rebounds.


I agree bro!! That sounds like a good starting 5.

[Raze Lupin]

I CAN"T WAIT FOR THE ANNOUNCEMENT!!!!!!;):cool::D

[Raze Lupin]

ITS OFFICIAL!! http://www.usabasketball.com/mens/national/12_Moly_Finalists.html




Twenty Finalists Selected For 2012 U.S. Olympic Men’s Team

After seeing his USA teams win gold at the 2008 Olympics and 2010 World Championship, Coach K in the summer of 2012 will be looking to lead the U.S. to a second consecutive Olympic gold medal.
Garrett Ellwood/NBAE/Getty Images
January 16, 2012 • Colorado Springs, Colo.


• 2012 U.S. Olympic Men's Team Finalists Roster
• 2012 Olympics - Just The Facts
Eight 2008 Olympic gold medalists, 10 members of the 2010 USA World Championship gold medal winning team, one national team player and one newcomer to the USA Basketball National Team were among the 20 finalists named today for the 2012 U.S. Olympic men’s basketball team by USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo. The official 12-man U.S. Olympic team roster will be announced later this year.

Named as a finalist for the 2012 USA team were: LaMarcus Aldridge (Portland Trail Blazers); Carmelo Anthony (New York Knicks); Chauncey Billups (Los Angeles Clippers); Chris Bosh (Miami Heat); Kobe Bryant (Los Angeles Lakers); Tyson Chandler (New York Knicks); Kevin Durant (Oklahoma City Thunder); Rudy Gay (Memphis Grizzlies); Eric Gordon (New Orleans Hornets); Blake Griffin (Los Angeles Clippers); Dwight Howard (Orlando Magic); Andre Iguodala (Philadelphia 76ers); LeBron James (Miami Heat); Kevin Love (Minnesota Timberwolves); Lamar Odom (Dallas Mavericks); Chris Paul (Los Angeles Clippers); Derrick Rose (Chicago Bulls); Dwyane Wade (Miami Heat); Russell Westbrook (Oklahoma City Thunder); and Deron Williams (New Jersey Nets). Griffin was also officially added to the USA Basketball National Team roster.

The 2012 USA coaching staff is led by Duke University’s Hall of Fame coach Mike Krzyzewski, and serving as USA assistant coaches are Syracuse University’s Hall of Fame coach Jim Boeheim, New York Knicks head coach Mike D’Antoni, and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Nate McMillan.

“The USA Basketball Men’s National Team program has come a long way as the elite list of players who are now part of our program shows. The selected finalists are a very, very talented group; the depth of the talent is extraordinary. This selection decision was as difficult of a challenge as I’ve faced since I took on the USA National Team program in 2005,” said Colangelo, who has served as the managing director of the USA Men’s National Team since 2005.

“I feel like we have an outstanding blend of talents from the 2008 Olympic and 2010 World Championship teams that won gold. Reducing to the official roster limit of 12 players will be an even tougher decision, but we’ll evaluate how guys play during the 2011-12 NBA season and as we’ve done with our teams in the past, we’ll attempt to select the very best team we can.”

“Jerry has built an extremely deep and talented USA National Team roster of 35 players and I want to thank each player for their incredible commitment to being part of USA Basketball. Reducing to 20 players was unbelievably difficult,” stated Krzyzewski, who has coached USA National Teams to a sterling 48-1 record since 2006.

“Aside from the obvious special basketball talents that all of these players possess, what struck me most about the finalists was their commitment to USA Basketball and the international basketball experience they have compiled. Among our 20 finalists, we have two players who possess 55 or more games of international experience, two with 40 or more international games under their belts and eight others who have played between 23 and 38 international games – that’s a lot of experience, which is going to be extremely valuable.

“These players have helped restore the winning tradition of USA Basketball while also gaining the respect of people around the world for the manner in which they have done it,” added Krzyzewski.

Three of the finalists are two-time Olympic medalists, including Anthony (2004 bronze and 2008 gold), James (2004 bronze and 2008 gold) and Wade (2004 bronze and 2008 gold).

Eight of the selected finalists were members of the 2008 U.S. Olympic team that compiled an unblemished record of 8-0 and captured gold in Beijing, including Anthony, Bosh, Bryant, Howard, James, Paul, Wade and Williams. Four finalists – Anthony, James, Odom and Wade - were part of the 2004 U.S. Olympic team that earned the bronze medal.

Ten finalists were members of the 2010 USA World Championship squad that went 9-0 and captured gold in Istanbul, Turkey. Billups, Chandler, World Championship MVP Durant, Gay, Gordon, Iguodala, Love, Odom, Rose and Westbrook were all members of the USA World Championship Team.

The finalists represent 14 different NBA teams, with the Miami Heat and Los Angeles Clippers leading the way with three players each; while the New York Knicks and Oklahoma City Thunder each have two players among the 20; and the Chicago Bulls, Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, Memphis Grizzlies, Minnesota Timberwolves, New Jersey Nets, New Orleans Hornets, Orlando Magic, Philadelphia 76ers and Portland Trail Blazers each are represented by one player.

Eighteen of the finalists possess impressive international experience with Anthony leading the way with 59 games of international experience. He is followed by James (55), Williams (47), Wade (40), Howard (38), Paul (37), Bosh (32), Billups (30), Odom (28), Chandler (25), Bryant (24), Gay (23), Durant (17), Iguodala (16), Rose (16), Gordon (15), Love (15) and Westbrook (15). Aldridge, who was a member of the 2008 USA Select Team that trained against the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team, and Griffin, who is the youngest finalist at 22-years-old, have not played in an international game.

The USA’s complete training schedule will be released at a later date.

2012 London Olympic Games
The 2012 Summer Olympic Games will be held July 27-Aug. 12 in London, England. Twelve teams will compete in the 2012 Olympic men’s basketball competition. Nations currently qualified for the Olympic competition include Great Britain, the host country; the United States, which earned its berth by virtue of claiming the gold medal at the 2010 FIBA World Championship; Africa zone champ Tunisia; Americas zone champion Argentina and runner-up Brazil; Asia zone winner China; European zone gold medalist Spain and silver medalist France; and Oceania zone champion Australia.

The remaining three Olympic qualifying spots will be determined through the 2012 FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament that will be held July 2-8, 2012, in Caracas, Venezuela. The Olympic qualifier will feature 12 nations from each of the five 2011 FIBA zone qualifying tournaments including: Angola and Nigeria from FIBA Africa; the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Venezuela from FIBA Americas (bronze medalist through fifth-place finishers); Jordan and South Korea from FIBA Asia (silver and bronze medalists); Russia, F.Y.R. of Macedonia, Lithuania and Greece from FIBA Europe (bronze medalists through sixth place finishers); and New Zealand from FIBA Oceania.

Preliminary play at the ’12 Olympics will be held July 29-Aug. 6, with quarterfinals play scheduled for Aug. 8, semifinals on Aug. 10 and the finals is slated for Aug. 12.

The U.S. men have collected a medal in all 16 Olympics in which they have competed, including 13 golds, one silver and two bronze. The Americans own an impressive 122-5 overall win-loss record (.961 winning percentage) in Olympic action, and since NBA players began representing the United States in 1992, the USA is 37-3 in the five Olympics they have participated in, capturing four gold medals and one bronze medal.




COME AT US BRO!!!!

[Dtown]

This is a sick roster, potentially the best ever since the Dream Team. Now I won't compare them directly to the 92 team until after the tournament, but with the sheer talent they have, possibly more international experience than any US team ever, and a Coaching staff that's been together for going on six years, it all comes together to form a scary package.

[Bosnian 23]

Here's the live USA basketball announcement (what Raze what talking about :D):

http://www.nba.com/live1/

[Raze Lupin]

The most exciting thing about the 2012 Olympics is that Team USA has one of the best teams ever yet can be beat by Spain and a few other teams! Global basketball is at its strongest point! I love the competition level!

[Federoy]

This is a sick roster, potentially the best ever since the Dream Team. Now I won't compare them directly to the 92 team until after the tournament, but with the sheer talent they have, possibly more international experience than any US team ever, and a Coaching staff that's been together for going on six years, it all comes together to form a scary package.

Yeah D, I agree. I don't have the audacity to say '12 is better than '92, but on paper, it's the closest we've had talent-wise since the original (one and only) Dream Team. Talent, factored in with an experienced coaching staff and a motivation to win makes for all the right ingredients for a gold medal run.

[carlo]

The 20 players roster is plenty of talent and xperience, it will be a hard task to come to the 12 finalists !
The only possible concern imo could come from the big men area, in terms of abundance of hi-quality players.

[Mindozas]

The most exciting thing about the 2012 Olympics is that Team USA has one of the best teams ever yet can be beat by Spain and a few other teams! Global basketball is at its strongest point! I love the competition level!

I doubt that. IMO the peak was somewhere 2004-2008, when Lithuania, Argentina had the teams, which potentially was as good as current Spain, which IMO is the only possible competition for US left. All others has no chance what so ever

[CKR13]

I am glad that Lamarcus Aldridge and Kevin Love are on the pool.

Kevin Love has been spectacular for the past two seasons. While Aldridge's inclusion has been a thing of scrutiny where many do point out that Aldridge should not be in the pool since he decided not to make himself available in 2010, where Team USA was badly needing a bigman of his skill.

With the way Aldridge is playing, he certainly deserve a shot for the national team.

[Dtown]

Love I think is a must for this team, quiet as it's kept the man had a fantastic 2010 tournament. While he was easily overshadowed by Durant he was killing it on the boards, and with second chance points. Perfect dirty work player for this team.

[Raze Lupin]

I doubt that. IMO the peak was somewhere 2004-2008, when Lithuania, Argentina had the teams, which potentially was as good as current Spain, which IMO is the only possible competition for US left. All others has no chance what so ever

Keep in mind. USA has shown weakness to zone defense. The NBA condense season has already caused injuries to key USA players. More injuries are sure to come. Kobe, Wade, Rose, Chris Paul and a few others may not make the roster because of injuries. Even if they do they could not be at 100%. In my humble opinion. These teams can compete with USA in various ways.:

1.Spain can compete with USA in athleticism, offensive tactics, speed and depth. Spain is weak to USA defensive tactics BUT they have shooters and great transition offense. USA has to play at a top level to beat them.

2. Brazil can compete with USA in front-court athleticism, Nene, Tiago and other Brazilian bigs can bang with the Americans and keep the game close. Brazil also has slashing guards that can hit clutch shots in a close game. Brazil is no Spain but they can cause problems for USA because of there tough style of play.

3. France: Most people underestimate France vs USA match, Here is some reasons why I think France has a chance to win. Athletic front-court with great interior and hi-lo passing. They have bigs that can run and as a team are good in transition.

4.Russia: Russia is lacking in elite guards BUT like Brazil they have the muscle to play physical ball and keep the game close enough to compete. The big problem is they lack the scoring ability needed to be more competitive.

5.LIETUVA: If Lietuva brings the right roster and attitude they can beat anyone. This is hard to predict because I'm not sure who the Liths will bring. The Liths NT has many questions to answer, for example: How will the status of Kleiza be in 7 months? Will the great Shark(Javtokas) mental focus will be at elite standard. Robertas Javtokas mind seems to be else where with Zalgiris this season. How will Jonas Valanciunas develop over the next 7 months? Will lietuva finally trust the younger generation? Should there be more roster spots for the 90, 91. 92 generation?

6.Argentina: has an outside chance. True they are old and injured. Never underestimate the heart of a champion nor the south American fighting spirit. I don't think they will beat USA but stranger things have happen in the past.

7.Greece: I'm unsure of the NT situation but I do know if they are 100%, meaning they bring their best talent they will be competitive.


Here are teams that did not make it yet are strong enough talent wise to compete with USA:

Turkey: has bodies and athleticism etc.. to compete with everyone. They have a weak team mentality and tactics as shown in Eurobasket. Turks need structure and organization.

Serbia: Serbia is only having organizational growing pains. The new KK is headed in the right direction. Serbia has a rich talent pool. I'm sure by 2014 WC Serbia will figure it out. Hopefully....

Italy: Has elite level scoring power. The Italians problems are obvious. They lack defensive structure, team chemistry. When looking at the talent level one can't help to be impressed.


I believe if you consider the volume of talent in global basketball today not only NT organization. This is the most talented and competitive generation of basketball. I think fair observation of basketball talent you will find fast, athletic, skilled players in most regions. It is true that USA has the largest pool of mentioned talents. Now USA is not the exclusive holder of elite talents. The Olympics and World Cup proves there are special talents all over the world.

[Jon_Koncak]

Kyle Lowry,Kyrie Irving,Ty Lawson
James Harden,JJ Reddick
Gerald Wallace,Caron Butler
Blake Griffin,Paul Millsap,Josh Smith
Lamarcus Aldridge,Andrew Bunym

The team i'd like to see.no player with previous international experience should be called in team USA just to make things a bit interesting.Do it Colangelo.

[Straight forward]

I doubt that. IMO the peak was somewhere 2004-2008, when Lithuania, Argentina had the teams, which potentially was as good as current Spain, which IMO is the only possible competition for US left. All others has no chance what so ever

I think you right. 2004 Olympics was one of he strongest international competitions in decades. Besides USA (bronze medal), super strong Argentina, Lithuania, Spain (that got unlucky in that tournament). These days only Spain left with that level. That's some difference.

Raze Lupin, Brazil is barely close to compete even with European powerhouses that are somewhere in transition currently. Pretty good team, but to put them as a real threat for USA is looking funny for me. France had no single chance against Spain in 2011 Eurobasket's final. It's was a sad final.

Despite Spain, I would only mention Russia, Greece (if Spanoulis, Diamantidis and all roster) and Lithuania (if Kemzura will bring fresh meat on the table) as a most solid threat for USA. Ironically all 3 teams are in qualification...

[Raze Lupin]

I think you right. 2004 Olympics was one of he strongest international competitions in decades. Besides USA (bronze medal), super strong Argentina, Lithuania, Spain (that got unlucky in that tournament). These days only Spain left with that level. That's some difference.

Raze Lupin, Brazil is barely close to compete even with European powerhouses that are somewhere in transition currently. Pretty good team, but to put them as a real threat for USA is looking funny for me. France had no single chance against Spain in 2011 Eurobasket's final. It's was a sad final.

Despite Spain, I would only mention Russia, Greece (if Spanoulis, Diamantidis and all roster) and Lithuania (if Kemzura will bring fresh meat on the table) as a most solid threat for USA. Ironically all 3 teams are in qualification...


Logically Brazil competing with European powerhouses and Brazil having success against USA can be 2 different things. Its about match-ups and style of play. For examples look at 2010 WC USA vs Brazil and USA vs Russia. USA beat Brazil by 1 point and Russia played strong for 3 quarters. Simply the Brazil style of play causes USA problems. Same for Russia. Now you may be right Brazil may not beat Lietuva or Serbia etc BUT that has little or nothing to do with how they play USA. My post was mostly about how teams match up with USA.


Just for fun tho I'd like to compare the potential Brazilian national team roster with potential Lietuva roster. How would Nene and Tiago match up with Robertas Javtokas and Jonas V?

[Straight forward]

Logically Brazil competing with European powerhouses and Brazil having success against USA can be 2 different things. Its about match-ups and style of play. For examples look at 2010 WC USA vs Brazil and USA vs Russia. USA beat Brazil by 1 point and Russia played strong for 3 quarters. Simply the Brazil style of play causes USA problems. Same for Russia. Now you may be right Brazil may not beat Lietuva or Serbia etc BUT that has little or nothing to do with how they play USA. My post was mostly about how teams match up with USA.


Just for fun tho I'd like to compare the potential Brazilian national team roster with potential Lietuva roster. How would Nene and Tiago match up with Robertas Javtokas and Jonas V?

I see, but match-ups is not everything, we know that.

Answer is very simple. Depends on how Valančiūnas will develop and look at that moment and who will be assisting him. He had two straight good important games against Kirstič (Serbia) and Kaman (Germany) in Eurobasket this summer. Both are solid NBA centers.

[CKR13]

Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry is disappointed of his non-inclusion in the national pool. Curry was a member of the United States national team that won the 2010 FIBA World Championships.

Curry Disappointed about Team USA (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=AjRK9aw9Jb8ycANVWJyuE7i8vLYF?slug=mc-spears_stephen_curry_team_usa_011612)

Although I find it not surprising at all if Curry's name was not on the list with the likes of Chris Paul and Deron Williams in the pool

[CKR13]

Kobe Bryant is excited for the London Olympics.

Kobe Bryant eager for 2012 Olympics (http://lakersblog.latimes.com/lakersblog/2012/01/kobe-bryant-eager-for-2012-olympics.html)

Barring a serious injury, Bryant is a shoo-in.

[Raze Lupin]

Here is my favorite Kobe quote from the article:


Kobe Bryant stood at his locker and stared directly at his competition.(Pau Gasol)

Bryant, one of the 20 finalists for the 2012 Team USA squad, said there's a specific reason he's "looking forward to it."

"I'm definitely going to be there," Bryant said, "because I sure as hell am not going to let that guy win it."

Kobe vs Pau 2012

[Raze Lupin]

I think I'm the only one on the planet who thinks that USA will lose one game maybe in group. I also believe USA has only a 70% chance of winning gold medal on 2012.

[Dtown]

I think I'm the only one on the planet who thinks that USA will lose one game maybe in group. I also believe USA has only a 70% chance of winning gold medal on 2012.

In group? No I can't see it. Spain could beat us in group play, but as the European Champion they'll likely be placed in the opposite group. Then there's the thing about European teams not showing 'all of their cards' in group play, if you believe that sort of thing anyway. So that leaves Brazil and Argentina. Possible, but I wouldn't bet money on it. If we bring our best out of that 20, I'll put our odds at Gold at 85%-90%. I'll reassess after we see the definite line up, and the line ups of our opponents.

[Mindozas]

Spain could beat us in group play, but as the European Champion they'll likely be placed in the opposite group.

If the draw system will stay the same like 4 years ago, seeding should look smth like this:

1) Q/Q
2) Spain/France
3) USA/Argentina
4) Australia/Q
5) Tunisia/China
6) Great Britain/Brazil

[CKR13]

New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony is excited to be a part of the National pool.

Anthony Plans on Playing in 2012 Olympics (http://espn.go.com/blog/new-york/knicks/post/_/id/9852/melo-ill-play-in-london-olympics)

[CKR13]

Looking ahead, LeBron James vouches for San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich to be the coach of the US National Team for the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

While LeBron is undecided as of the moment if he will re-commit to the National Team in 2016.

LeBron likes Popovich for next Olympic coach (http://www.foxsportsflorida.com/01/18/12/LeBron-likes-Popovich-for-next-Olympic-c/landing_heat.html?blockID=648300&feedID=3798)

[Raze Lupin]

In group? No I can't see it. Spain could beat us in group play, but as the European Champion they'll likely be placed in the opposite group. Then there's the thing about European teams not showing 'all of their cards' in group play, if you believe that sort of thing anyway. So that leaves Brazil and Argentina. Possible, but I wouldn't bet money on it. If we bring our best out of that 20, I'll put our odds at Gold at 85%-90%. I'll reassess after we see the definite line up, and the line ups of our opponents.

Yes Euro/international teams sandbag. I have no doubt about that. My prediction depends on the scenario. Say If USA is in a group of death those teams will have to play 100% if they want to qualify. IDK man I just have a feeling it isn't going to be easy and USA could drop a game somewhere....




If the draw system will stay the same like 4 years ago, seeding should look smth like this:

1) Q/Q
2) Spain/France
3) USA/Argentina
4) Australia/Q
5) Tunisia/China
6) Great Britain/Brazil

^How does that work exactly?^

[Dtown]

Yes Euro/international teams sandbag. I have no doubt about that. My prediction depends on the scenario. Say If USA is in a group of death those teams will have to play 100% if they want to qualify. IDK man I just have a feeling it isn't going to be easy and USA could drop a game somewhere....

The thing is there really isn't such a thing as a group of death at the Olympics, as 4 teams qualify from each group of 6, and that includes the one team from Asia or Africa. Qualifying for the knockout just means beating one other team typically.

The only scenario I can see where we would see a team go all out against the US in group play is if it was the last day, and that was the only way they could advance. The teams I believe can beat the US likely wouldn't face this problem.

[Raze Lupin]

Yeah I guess I was thinking the Oly games was more like 2010 WC.

[Jon_Koncak]

Let's also not forget that no team goes hard against Usa on group stages,thats what i've learned on these boards.They tank to give those dumb yankees a false sense of superiority and beat them on the knock out stages( a true masterplan that turned out to be very effective on 08 and 10 tournaments)

[Raze Lupin]

It worked in 2008 with Spain. 2010 guys were more savvy....No telling what happens this year tho.

[Mindozas]

^How does that work exactly?^

You mean how the seedings are made? It's mostly with intention that countries from the same continent won't be in the same group (or would be equaly, as much as its possible, divided). Atleast it was like that 4 years ago, when European finalists (Russia and Spain) were is separate pots, American top teams (USA and Argentina were also split), Asian and African teams also usualy are in different pots (Iran and Angola back then). Then Australia, Lithuania and China were the teams, which left, so hosts were in the same seeding group with 3rd European team (now 3rd American), while Australia was grouped with one of the qualifiers. I assume there shouldn't be much changes, maybe minor

[Dtown]

Actually did a little search for the past draw and came up with this from the forum.

http://forums.interbasket.net/showthread.php?6523-Olympic-Draw

According to those in that thread the seeding was actually based on world rankings at the time. With the top 9 seeded based on their ranking, with the final three based on who survived the qualifier. So if this holds up the seeding would look like this.

Pot 1 USA, Spain
Pot 2 Argentina, Australia
Pot 3 China, France
Pot 4 Brazil, Tunisia
Pot 5 Great Britain, Q1
Pot 6 Q2, Q3

Now I'll admit that seems really haphazard but apparently that's how they did it last time....

[Mindozas]

Actually did a little search for the past draw and came up with this from the forum.

http://forums.interbasket.net/showthread.php?6523-Olympic-Draw

According to those in that thread the seeding was actually based on world rankings at the time. With the top 9 seeded based on their ranking, with the final three based on who survived the qualifier. So if this holds up the seeding would look like this.

Pot 1 USA, Spain
Pot 2 Argentina, Australia
Pot 3 China, France
Pot 4 Brazil, Tunisia
Pot 5 Great Britain, Q1
Pot 6 Q2, Q3

Now I'll admit that seems really haphazard but apparently that's how they did it last time....

That's wrong seeding in that 2008 thread. We've had a conversation with couple of friends some time ago about it and I've found and watched replay of the draw of last Olympics, so the seeding was as I've wrote previously, based on continets, not on rankings ;)

[rikhardur]

USA - Kidd may stay involved with national team

DALLAS (Olympics) - Team USA has seen the last of Jason Kidd as a player, but the veteran Dallas Mavericks point guard may be involved in some other capacity.

United States coach Mike Krzyzewski showered praise on the 38-year-old Kidd, who won gold at the 2000 and 2008 Olympics and never lost a game.

Kidd decided his last run with the national team would be the Beijing Games four years ago.

"I talked with Coach K about maybe getting into the coaching end of it," Kidd said on Wednesday.

"I want to stay connected with them in some form."

Krzyzewski, when fielding questions about the 20 finalists for this summer's side at the London Games, was asked about Kidd.

"Jason is amazing," Krzyzewski said.

"He's an undefeated international player.

"One of the reasons we have a program right now is because of his leadership, his maturity. He's the best.

"I love Jason, and appreciate his commitment to USA Basketball over the years.

"But especially as we started to form the program (that we have) right now, he was an essential ingredient for the success we've had so far."

USA Basketball Chairman Jerry Colangelo also hailed the impact of Kidd, who last year won his first NBA title with Dallas.

"When we formed our club for the 2008 Olympics, Jason was the only gold medalist in the room," Colangelo said.

"And since that time, we now have 18 gold medalists - eight from the Olympic team and 10 from the (2010) World Championship team.

"But it all started with Jason."
http://www.fiba.com/pages/eng/fc/news/lateNews/p/newsid/50389/arti.html

[OliveButtercup]

Stupid question, but I was hoping someone could give me an idea of the seeding as mentioned above as it pertains to actual games. It may be reaching but I have tickets to a semifinals game 8/4/12 and was hoping to luckily see the USA team play. Hope that made sense...thanks

[CKR13]

Since Chauncey Billups will be out for the season and may not be ready to participate in the national team training camp, Jerry Colangelo stated that USA Basketball will not replace Billups. Colangelo expressed concerns about the possibility of serious injuries of the names in the twenty man pool.

USA Basketball doesn’t plan to replace Billups (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news;_ylt=AkZbYWQRTqFJypm7QdioBuW8vLYF?slug=mc-spears_chauncey_billups_olympics_020712)

[CKR13]

More hype-up of the USA-Spain showdown. This time between teammates Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol. Both are teammates for now, but in six months, both would be fiercely competing against one another.

Kobe & Pau: Lakers teammates, Olympic opponents (http://espn.go.com/blog/los-angeles/lakers/post/_/id/26908/kobe-pau-lakers-teammates-olympic-opponents)

[CKR13]

Kobe Bryant said that his wrist is fully healed and it will not be a problem in the London Olympics.

Kobe: Wrist Healed; Will Play ’12 Olympics (http://www.boston.com/sports/basketball/celtics/extras/celtics_blog/)

[Dtown]

Team USA reportedly will play Spain in Barcelona in a pre-olympic warm up

http://basketball.realgm.com/wiretap/219006/Team_USA_To_Play_Spain_In_Barcelona

[CKR13]

In Barcelona? Wow, this is like what happened twenty years ago with the original Dream Team that dominated in the Barcelona Olympics.

[CKR13]

According to Kobe Bryant, the 2012 Team USA roster for the London Olympics will be better than the Original Dream Team.

Kobe Bryant: USA will field most powerful Olympic team ever (http://www.thesportreview.com/tsr/2012/02/bryant-promises-usa-olympic-basketball-team-london-2012/)

[CKR13]

Team USA will play Argentina and Spain as a test match.

http://espn.go.com/olympics/basketball/story/_/id/7578677/spain-united-states-argentina-play-olympic-basketball-warm-event

[Raze Lupin]

Team USA needs to warm up against Brazil!

[Raze Lupin]

USA has a problem with injuries to its 2012 Olympic training roster. Looks like injuries could keep the following guards out of the Olympics;
Kobe Bryant(wrist tendons)
Eric Gordon (knee surgery)
Derrick Rose (back spasms)
Chauncey Billups (Achilles rupture).

With the condensed season more injuries to team USA training roster are likely. I think possible replacements should be:
#1Rajon Rondo, No particular order;Raymond Felton, Ty Lawson, Kyle Lowery, jeremy Lin, Monta Ellis

[rikhardur]

USA - Bryant: "I'm not letting Pau get a free run at a gold medal"

LOS ANGELES (NBA/Olympics) - The Los Angeles Lakers went through some pretty radical changes ahead of the 2011-2012 NBA season, but one very important constant has remained intact: Kobe Bryant is still the face of the storied franchise.

The 33-year-old, now in his 16th season, is chasing a sixth championship and is also a very likely candidate for the USA to go after a second gold medal at this summer's Olympic Games.

Before London beckons, Bryant will look to lead the Lakers to their 17th championship and match the Boston Celtics for most NBA titles.

That will be no mean feat for a team that has had a busy off-season to say the least.

It began with the retirement of legendary head coach Phil Jackson, who was summarily replaced by Mike Brown.

In December, after the NBA lockout ended, LA changed up its roster, most notably trading Lamar Odom - last season's Sixth Man of the Year and a member of the USA's 20-man preliminary squad ahead of this summer's London Olympics - to the reigning champions Dallas Mavericks.

A three-team blockbuster deal that would have seen Pau Gasol leave California in return for Team USA point guard Chris Paul was revoked by the NBA, but the Spaniard's name is still mentioned in trade rumours on a daily basis.

As for Bryant, he gave Lakers fans a huge fright when injuring his right wrist in pre-season and a spell on the injured list looked inevitable.

However, one of the league's toughest players decided a torn ligament was not going to mess his campaign and he has played through the pain.

With so much change taking place within the franchise and so little time to prepare for a compact season, Bryant and the Lakers got off to a slow start but have steadied the ship somewhat in recent weeks.

FIBA.com caught up with Bryant to talk about the current season and look ahead to this summer's Games.

FIBA: Kobe, where do you feel the Lakers are at this moment in time? Are you encouraged by your recent play?
Bryant: We just don't have a big margin for error. It's really not that bad. We play very well for long stretches of the ball games but then we have a couple of minutes where we don't execute well defensively and teams tend to bust us open in those stretches. It's not as bad as the record may indicate. There's a lot of positives here and we're close to really turning the corner and we really have to keep at it.

FIBA: The Lakers are among the oldest teams in the league. Is that playing against you in this compact season?
Bryant: We're not necessarily young and we've been around the block twice. In this particular season it may take a little longer for us to get going.

FIBA: You're in your 16th NBA season and have accomplished everything. What keeps you motivated?
Bryant: (Winning a) sixth ring. I'm obsessed...I got to get it, it's what I play for. I can think of nothing else. As a kid growing up, that's all I saw. I watched Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan winning multiple titles. You grow up thinking that's how it should be. This is what I must do. Then after you win one, you become addicted to it, you win two and three. You get greedy. I want another one.

FIBA: Speaking of wanting more, can we expect to see you in London at the Olympics going for a second gold medal?
Bryant: I'm definitely going to play. I'm looking forward to it, if anything else just not to let Pau (Gasol) win a gold medal (laughs). I'm not letting Pau get a free run at getting a gold medal.

FIBA: One USA player who likely won't be in London is Chauncey Billups because of the injury he suffered recently.
Bryant: Hopefully he'll still be there. I'd be surprised if he wasn't there in some capacity, helping out some of the younger guards. He did a great job helping Chris Paul a lot at the beginning of his career. I know Chris views Chauncey as almost a big brother. Chauncey did a great job showing Chris the tempo and pace of the game and things like that.

FIBA: What are your thoughts on the USA's preliminary squad?
Bryant: We have so many great players, it's a good problem to have. The challenge has always been to put a good mix of players that play well together. It's not necessarily getting the best players but it's finding the players that fit together the best.

FIBA: But if you, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Carmelo Anthony all play, the USA will have no shortage of star power. That can be intimidating for any of your opponents.
Bryant: It's not about star power. It's really not. It's about putting a group together that plays well together. Spain play extremely well together, Argentina play extremely well together and so forth and so on. That's going to be our challenge.
http://www.fiba.com/pages/eng/fc/news/presRele/p/newsid/50612/presReleArti.html

[CKR13]

More comparisons and hypothetical match-ups between 2012 Team USA vs. The Dream Team.

2012 USA basketball team heading to London Olympics is better than the 1992 Dream Team (http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/2012-usa-basketball-team-heading-london-olympics-better-1992-dream-team-article-1.1025059?localLinksEnabled=false)

[NorCal]

More comparisons and hypothetical match-ups between 2012 Team USA vs. The Dream Team.

2012 USA basketball team heading to London Olympics is better than the 1992 Dream Team (http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/2012-usa-basketball-team-heading-london-olympics-better-1992-dream-team-article-1.1025059?localLinksEnabled=false)

As others have pointed out before- the thing about the '92 Dream Team was what their career accomplishments were by the end of their playing days. This 2012 team could be better than the '92 team on paper simply because they have almost everyone on the projected team in their prime years whereas the '92 team had 2 out of its top 3 players historically speaking well past their primes for age and health reasons- Magic and Bird. Also, the '92 team had Laettner.

So, better on paper, possibly. But, as the article states the historical significance of this 2012 team will be based upon its results in these upcoming games as well as the further accomplishments of the players down the road.

[CKR13]

TEAM USA

http://media.zenfs.com/en/blogs/sptusolyexperts/Screen-Shot-2012-02-21-at-2.55.17-PM.jpg

[Dtown]

Team LISA err USA!

Alright so we won't be the best looking team at the tournament....

[Federoy]

Yeah, the new uniforms have gotten some criticism from the newly sprung Olympic fashion police, but all in all, I think they look pretty modern and stylish. I would have personally went for a more retro look (like the 60's style jerseys they had for the 2007 Tournament of the Americas), but ultimately the only thing that matters for me is them winning the gold medal.

BTW, the ugliest uniforms in the USA's long and storied history (in my opinion) are from 2002/03. These generic montrocities designed by Reebok featured a single stripe of stars along the right side connecting the jersey and trunks. The oversized USA logo is in big red block letters trimmed by navy blue. They're tapered off on the collar and around the arms with cheap looking solid blue (home) and red (away) elastic material. The unines looked like something designed by high school kids that were given $20 worth of material and told to make something.


3830

[Dtown]

I don't know I've always been a fan of less is more with basketball jerseys.

I'd say these are my least favorite.

3831

[Federoy]

Yeah, not a big fan of those get-ups either, especially the cursive USA on the front. For 2012, Nike could've kept the 2010 WC uniforms, which were only a slight variation from the 2008 one's. They keep introducting new jerseys when they don't need to.

BTW--love the vintage Shaq-nosis shoes

[CKR13]

Don't expect Jeremy Lin of the New York Knicks to be in a Team USA jersey anytime soon.

Jeremy Lin not expected to play for US in London (http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/sport/london-olympics/jeremy-lin-not-expected-to-play-for-us-in-london/story-fn9dhvy9-1226280291115)

USA Basketball will have a press conference in Friday, Feb. 24, 2012. NBA TV will air it live 9 AM Eastern Time.

[CKR13]

Jeremy Lin Could Train With USA Team (http://tracking.si.com/2012/02/23/jeremy-lin-could-train-with-usa-team/)


http://p.twimg.com/AmWqTrcCAAA50Tt.png

Perhaps Lin will be a member of a Team Select that will first scrimmage with the Olympic bound roster prior to them flying abroad?

[carlo]

USA 2012 NT exhibition games in prep of the Olympics announced:

http://www.usabasketball.com/mens/national/12_mnt_july_training.html

Doubleheader games with the Women NT will be played with Brazil and Great Britain.

[Raze Lupin]

Jeremy Lin Could Train With USA Team (http://tracking.si.com/2012/02/23/jeremy-lin-could-train-with-usa-team/)


http://p.twimg.com/AmWqTrcCAAA50Tt.png

Perhaps Lin will be a member of a Team Select that will first scrimmage with the Olympic bound roster prior to them flying abroad?

This is awesome! This will help him mature his skills!


ORLANDO, Fla. -- Jeremy Lin could earn an invitation to scrimmage against the U.S. Olympic men's basketball team this summer.

USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo mentioned the Knicks guard as a candidate for the select team of young players who will work against the Americans during their training camp in Las Vegas.

But he won't play for the Americans in London even if he continues his superb play since becoming an NBA starter. The U.S. already has a roster of 20 players, and Colangelo says, "Everyone has to pay their dues. No exceptions."

But the select team could strengthen his chances for another time. A number of players in this year's U.S. Olympic pool, including All-Stars Kevin Durant, LaMarcus Aldridge and Andre Iguodala, were previous select team members.

[CKR13]

USAB's new logo


http://cdn.newsday.com/polopoly_fs/1.3554749.1330105155!/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/feature_196/image.jpg

[Raze Lupin]

Lamar Odom is considering retirement. That's another possible absence from the 2012 preliminary squad.

[Dtown]

Lamar Odom is considering retirement. That's another possible absence from the 2012 preliminary squad.

Don't know if this is necessarily equal to missing the olympics, he wouldn't be the first player to end his career with the Olympic team.

[Raze Lupin]

http://www.nba.com/2012/news/features/david_aldridge/02/28/morning-tip-seven-keys-to-victory/index.html
Shortened season won't slow USA hoops' progression


There has been understandable concern about whether the lockout-shortened season has contributed to all the injuries throughout the league this season. Jerry Colangelo is concerned, too. But he can't let that stop him from putting a team together.
USA Basketball's chairman and head honcho will have a small window after The Finals in June to put together a team that will be defending its 2008 gold medal in London for the Summer Games. He knows it will be a hybrid of the '08 team led by Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and Dwyane Wade and the Kevin Durant-led 2010 team that won the World Championships in Turkey. He knows Mike Krzyzewski will be coaching it. And he believes it has to come together in a hurry. So the U.S. team will start camp July 6 in Las Vegas, train there until the 11th and play the Dominican Republic in an exhibition on the 12th. Then they will fly to Washington, D.C., for three days of training and an exhibition against Brazil on July 16. The next day, the team flies to England, where it will train for two days and play again on the 19th, against Great Britain. Then it's off to Barcelona, for games on July 22 against Argentina and July 24 against Spain, before heading to London for the Opening Ceremonies on July 27.
"We have a short period of time," Colangelo said Friday. "We've got to get the games in. We've got to get prepared. And that's just the way it is."
Colangelo will not replace Chauncey Billups, a member of the 2010 World Championshipsteam who will be out the rest of the NBA season with a torn ACL, on the roster, and he's not likely to make any additions before next summer. The U.S. Select Team, comprised of younger NBA players that work out with the senior team, will be vital to this Olympic cycle, Colangelo said, helping the Olympic Team prepare. Durant, Russell Westbrook, Kevin Love, Andre Iguodala and Derrick Rose were '08 Select Team members who went on to become part of the core of the '10 World Championshp team. Rest for the older players has to be built into the schedule.
"One of the things we're going to be very careful about is our players, coming off of a condensed season," Colangelo said. "We're not going to overwork them. We're not going to overkill them or anything like that. We've got to be careful. We'll back off (practice) a little bit. It's important to have our Select Team be there for all of that, and I may have a few extra. Even though we have a 12-man roster we have to submit in June, before the camp, I may ask a few guys to come anyway. If they wish to. And they should."
But Colangelo does not think an extended summer for any NBA player, including NBA playoffs and the Summer Games, will necessarily lead to more injuries for those players in the 2012-13 NBA season. To the contrary.
"It turned out to be a blessing that none of the Beijing ('08) guys played in Istanbul," he said. "Look at what happened with those new players. Derrick Rose ended up as MVP. Durant led the league in scoring. Westbrook made the All-Star team. Love had an incredible year. Tyson Chandler helps Dallas win a championship and parlays that into a pretty nice contract. All of those guys had great seasons. Nobody got hurt. That's the proof of the pudding."

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A good read about the gear from NIKE that Team USA will strut in the London Olympics.

Nike Innovation Summit Recap (http://www.slamonline.com/online/kicks/2012/02/nike-innovation-summit-recap/)

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No ill-feelings from Kobe Bryant on Dwyane Wade's hard foul that resulted in Bryant having a nasal fracture and a mild concussion. Wade did apologize publicly when he learned what happened to Bryant.

More importantly, Bryant brushed it off and said he harbor no ill feelings.


“He didn’t mean to do it, he’s not that type of player. He’s a nicer guy than I am, to be honest. "

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Cleveland Cavaliers rookie Kyrie Irving has opted not to suit up for the Australian national team in the London Olympics. Instead, Irving is looking ahead in 2014 and 2016.

Irving won't play for Australia in Olympics (http://www.foxsportsohio.com/03/06/12/Irving-wont-play-for-Australia-in-Olympi/landing_cavaliers.html?blockID=680816&feedID=3725)

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After Kyrie Irving said that Mike Krzyzewski was coaching in the 2016 Rio Olympics, Coach K said that there are no discussions beyond the 2012 London Olympics this summer.

Coach K focused on 2012 Olympics (http://espn.go.com/olympics/basketball/story/_/id/7653949/mike-krzyzewski-only-thinking-2012-london-olympics)

[CKR13]

Quite a good read about Kobe Bryant going on a reprisal of his role as a go-to-guy or closer for Team USA in the London Olympics. Just like the one he did in the Beijing Olympics.

LAKERS STAR BRYANT EXPECTS TO BE USA BASKETBALL'S CLOSER (http://www.tsn.ca/olympics/story/?id=390244)

[JGX]

I thought Kobe reprised his ballhog role from the NBA in the last Olympics. Worst player on the team.

Looks like K will start his preparations a little early.

[CKR13]

Team USA assistant coaches Nate McMillan and Mike D'Antoni also have a lot of time on their hands. Both were fired recently by their respective NBA teams. Jim Boeheim could also start early.

[CKR13]

Fired NBA coaches still part of Team USA plans

The tenuous relationship between former New York Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni, a Team USA assistant, and Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony will have no impact on Team USA player selections for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London later this year, USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo said Monday.

"Ultimately, as the guy who makes the final decision, I'm telling you, no, it will not have any bearing whatsoever. None," Colangelo told USA TODAY.

D'Antoni and the Knicks mutually agreed to part ways Wednesday after the team's six-game losing streak and growing concern from D'Antoni about Anthony's role in the pick-and-roll offense.

Anthony, who played on Team USA's 2008 gold-medal Olympic team in China, is one of 20 finalists to make this year's 12-man Olympic roster.

D'Antoni and Nate McMillan, fired Thursday as Portland Trail Blazers head coach, will remain Team USA assistants. They also were assistants in 2008 for Team USA — and Duke — coach Mike Krzyzewski.

"Nothing changes for my people, because they all have equity in our program," Colangelo said. "And I told them, in particular, Mike (D'Antoni) and Nate, that they're a part of our staff as far as I'm concerned — and ultimately, that's what matters."

Krzyzewski capped a rough week for USA Basketball coaches when his second-seeded Blue Devils lost to 15th-seeded Lehigh on Friday in the NCAA tournament.

"It was a tough week for our staff, pretty simply put. That's life in big-time college sports and pro basketball. You just have to roll with that," Colangelo said.

He has talked to all three coaches.

"You have to sit back and lick you wounds a little bit, reflect a little bit and create a little bit of space, because we have plenty of time," Colangelo said. "I told each of them we'll talk in a couple of weeks when things settle down a little bit."

One way or another, Krzyzewski's season was going to end by April 2, the date of the national championship game. D'Antoni and McMillan had planned to coach until at least the end of the NBA's on regular season, if not into the playoffs.

The London Olympics are July 27-Aug. 12, and Team USA is favored to win its second gold medal in a row.

This premature end to each coach's season gives Krzyzewski, D'Antoni and McMillan a head start on Olympic preparations.

After Colangelo gives D'Antoni and McMillan time and space, "One of the things they're going to be asked to do is monitor as closely as they can our players who are still actively playing right now" in the NBA.

"We'll have conversations about what we see and what we know. … We have to monitor all these things," Colangelo said. "We will watch closely the injury circumstances because that will play a factor, too, unfortunately. They're going to be more tuned in to what's happening because they're going to have time on their hands."

Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim, another Team USA assistant, is still active in the NCAA tournament, with his No. 1-seeded Orange playing fourth-seeded Wisconsin on Thursday in a Sweet 16 game.

-USA Today (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/story/2012-03-19/Fired-NBA-coaches-still-part-of-Team-USA-plans/53656410/1)

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Former Team USA star Shaquille O'Neal offered his views about Team USA in the coming London Olympics.


Olympics-Fading fundamentals hurting U.S. basketball-Shaq

Team USA's grip on the basketball world is being undermined by a lack of focus on fundamentals and will eventually be threatened by emerging international powers, according to Olympic and world championship gold medal winner Shaquille O'Neal.

Renaissance man O'Neal, whose many pursuits since retiring last year after a 19-year National Basketball Association (NBA) career include TV commentary, feels players who leave college after one year for the pros are hurting their development while international players practice more.

"Over here, the one-and-done phase took a big stab in the development of our young kids," O'Neal, referring to a rule that allows players to join the NBA one year after their high school graduating class, told Reuters in a recent interview.

"Over there in Europe, I've been at a lot of these camps, they're sticking to the basic fundamentals and that's why they are great shooters and great passers like (Spain's) Ricky Rubio.

"There's gonna be one day where another country is going to dominate us in basketball."

Shaq said the weakening of fundamental skills was compounded by the inspiration that up and coming international players get from watching countrymen compete on the NBA stage.

There are 76 international players from 36 countries and territories on official NBA rosters, according to the league, including eight from France, six from Turkey, five from Spain and four each from Argentina, Brazil and Canada.

"That's it, exactly," said O'Neal, promoting his role as a spokesman for the Dove Men + Care skin care product.

O'Neal spent three years at Louisiana State University before declaring himself for the 1992 NBA draft, where he was selected with the first overall pick by the Orlando Magic. He went on to win three consecutive NBA titles with the Los Angeles Lakers and one with the Miami Heat.

Illustrating the surge in international basketball, the only foreign player taken in that '92 draft was Predrag Danilovic of Yugoslavia with the 43rd pick by the Golden State Warriors.

The one-and-done rule was introduced in 2006 to keep top high school players from going straight to an NBA team, but Shaq said U.S. players could benefit from even more seasoning.

IMPOSED WILL

O'Neal, at a beefy 7-foot-1, imposed his will in his international debut at the 1994 world championships in Toronto.

He was named Most Valuable Player of the worlds, averaging 18 points and 8.5 rebounds for the second U.S. national team of NBA players following the original "Dream Team" of the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

Shaq admitted that being passed over for the initial "Dream Team" fueled his desire at the 1994 competition.

"When I played for Dream Team II at the world (championship) games, I was playing with anger," said O'Neal, who this May will receive a PhD. in education. "I thought they should have picked me for Dream Team I."

That group of NBA stars on the first U.S. team featuring professionals included just one college player, with Christian Laettner of U.S. national champions Duke selected over O'Neal.

"That was extra motivation right there," said Shaq. "I just went out and led the team. I knew what I had to do. My job was to dominate all the other big men. We didn't want to be known as the team that lost.

"Dream Team one had a great record, (Dream Teams) two and three had an unblemished record. It didn't get blemished until a couple of years ago when the Europeans started stepping their game up."

'VERY UPSET'

The international advance coincided with disharmony and disarray on the U.S. national teams. O'Neal himself became disgruntled about his treatment at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

The star of the '94 world championship team was told by U.S. coach Lenny Wilkens that center David Robinson, playing in his third and final Olympics, would feature in the gold medal game.

"In '94, I played a lot of minutes, but then in the (Olympic) championship game ... the coach said, 'your gonna be in many more games. This is David's last game. We're going to let him play.' He put me in with something like 12 seconds left. I was very upset."

O'Neal conceded it led "a little bit" to a falling out.

"I was getting old and I was doing other stuff. I was focused on winning championships," said 15-time NBA All-Star O'Neal, who did not return to play for the U.S. national team.

The U.S. team stumbled badly after winning the 2000 Sydney Olympics finishing sixth at the 2002 world championships and taking bronze at the 2004 Athens Olympics and 2006 world championships before rebounding to 2008 Beijing gold with the "Redeem Team."

O'Neal sees U.S. basketball as still superior for now, but believes the margin is narrowing fast.

"Back then, the gap was far, as far as talent was concerned," Shaq said about his time on the international stage.

"Now it's very, very close and it's going to be one day where they'll beat us, sad to say."

-Reuters (http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/03/23/olympics-basketball-shaq-idUSL2E8EN1PN20120323)

[CKR13]

Jim Boeheim and his Mighty Orange had a good run in the NCAA. He is free now to convene with Krzyzewski, D'Antoni and McMillan about team preparations.

[neo]

Quite a good read about Kobe Bryant going on a reprisal of his role as a go-to-guy or closer for Team USA in the London Olympics. Just like the one he did in the Beijing Olympics.

LAKERS STAR BRYANT EXPECTS TO BE USA BASKETBALL'S CLOSER (http://www.tsn.ca/olympics/story/?id=390244)

he was not the go-to-guy in 2008. closer in 2008? debatable.and i don't think the article says so.

but for 2012, as the article suggests, maybe.

[CKR13]

he was not the go-to-guy in 2008. closer in 2008? debatable.and i don't think the article says so.

but for 2012, as the article suggests, maybe.

He did help us close out Spain when it mattered in the gold medal game. Plus in the game against Greece, Bryant got the early going. For 2012, when Team USA is facing another heavy weight match against Spain, USA will need Bryant's shooting.

[neo]

He did help us close out Spain when it mattered in the gold medal game. Plus in the game against Greece, Bryant got the early going. For 2012, when Team USA is facing another heavy weight match against Spain, USA will need Bryant's shooting.

kobe surely hit some clutch shots against spain in the finals. he and wade closed out that one. i still think he should be the starting shooting guard for d 2012 team.

[CKR13]

Though I am not a Kobe Bryant fan, I too would prefer Bryant starting over Wade. I think Coach K too has a high regard for Bryant and his veteran leadership on the squad; as he could be the most senior in the twelve man team.