USA Basketball Team Roster (1 Viewer)

[LHUCKS]

I cannot wait for Kobe,Lebron and Wade to play together. If everyone else lets these guys lead the team, and play second fiddle a gold medal is a shoe in.

Lebron will have to learn to take higher percentage shots if he wants to stay in the lineup IMHO. He's still got a ways to go before he reaches the efficiency of a Wade or Bryant.

 

[JMon348]

I cannot wait for Kobe,Lebron and Wade to play together. If everyone else lets these guys lead the team, and play second fiddle a gold medal is a shoe in.

Lebron will have to learn to take higher percentage shots if he wants to stay in the lineup IMHO. He's still got a ways to go before he reaches the efficiency of a Wade or Bryant IMHO.

while i agree, i think he will adapt quickly, we'll see more of the Magic Johnson in his game.I would not be surprised to see LBJ avg 8pts 8asts 8rbs, or something close to that

 

[LHUCKS]

I cannot wait for Kobe,Lebron and Wade to play together. If everyone else lets these guys lead the team, and play second fiddle a gold medal is a shoe in.

Lebron will have to learn to take higher percentage shots if he wants to stay in the lineup IMHO. He's still got a ways to go before he reaches the efficiency of a Wade or Bryant IMHO.

while i agree, i think he will adapt quickly, we'll see more of the Magic Johnson in his game.I would not be surprised to see LBJ avg 8pts 8asts 8rbs, or something close to that

Exactly what the US team would need...hopefully Lebron/Wade/Bryant can let their egos down and not get into a pissing match. I know Wade can, just not sure about Bryant and Lebron. Of course, Lebron is like 19 so we might be expecting a bit much.

 

[Mike T]

I cannot wait for Kobe,Lebron and Wade to play together. If everyone else lets these guys lead the team, and play second fiddle a gold medal is a shoe in.

Anyone know when they will be in Vegas this summer? That might be an excuse to get out there.

Edit: my 12 would be

PG-Wade, Paul, Arenas

SG-Kobe, Redd

SF-Lebron, Odom, Marion

PF-Brand, Bosh

C- Amare, Howard

Pierce has gotta be on the team...I'd porlly take off Odom.

 

[JMon348]

I cannot wait for Kobe,Lebron and Wade to play together. If everyone else lets these guys lead the team, and play second fiddle a gold medal is a shoe in.

Anyone know when they will be in Vegas this summer? That might be an excuse to get out there.

Edit: my 12 would be

PG-Wade, Paul, Arenas

SG-Kobe, Redd

SF-Lebron, Odom, Marion

PF-Brand, Bosh

C- Amare, Howard

Pierce has gotta be on the team...I'd porlly take off Odom.

while Pierce might be the better player, I think Odom fits team USA perfect, all around game and unselfish. Plus he was one of the bright spots of last years dissapointing team.

 

[scoobus]

I'll throw out my 12:

PG: Billups, Paul

SG: Wade, Kobe, Redd

SF: Lebron, Pierce, Bowen

PF: Brand, Bosh

C: Stoudemire (assuming healthy), Howard

 

[LHUCKS]

Pierce would be on my team.

Howard would be a horrible international player. You need smart, high percentage type guys...not athletes.

 

[LHUCKS]

I think Odom fits team USA perfect, all around game and unselfish. Plus he was one of the bright spots of last years dissapointing team.

Odom might be unselfish, but he's inconsistent as hell...he'd be borderline IMHO.

 

[mlball77]

I'd love to see Bruce Bowen on the team and think he would be a great addition... a guy that prides himself on playing D. You know Bowen would be fine with only playing spot minutes and when matchups deemed that he should be on the court for defensive purposes. He'd be a great role player for the team... and would be a difference maker in a lot of small, but important ways.

 

[LHUCKS]

I'd love to see Bruce Bowen on the team and think he would be a great addition... a guy that prides himself on playing D. You know Bowen would be fine only playing spot minutes and when matchups deemed that he should be on the court for defensive purposes. He'd be a great role player for the team... and would be a difference maker in a lot of small, but important ways.

You don't need more scoring when you've got Kobe/Wade/Brand etc. on the court.

You need guys that don't turn the ball over and shut down the opposing player...that's what Bowen does.

 

[Eephus]

I'd love to see Bruce Bowen on the team and think he would be a great addition... a guy that prides himself on playing D.  You know Bowen would be fine only playing spot minutes and when matchups deemed that he should be on the court for defensive purposes.  He'd be a great role player for the team... and would be a difference maker in a lot of small, but important ways.

You don't need more scoring when you've got Kobe/Wade/Brand etc. on the court.

You need guys that don't turn the ball over and shut down the opposing player...that's what Bowen does.

Plus he can knock down a three over a zone.

 

[rgabbard]

I cannot wait for Kobe,Lebron and Wade to play together. If everyone else lets these guys lead the team, and play second fiddle a gold medal is a shoe in.

Lebron will have to learn to take higher percentage shots if he wants to stay in the lineup IMHO. He's still got a ways to go before he reaches the efficiency of a Wade or Bryant IMHO.

while i agree, i think he will adapt quickly, we'll see more of the Magic Johnson in his game.I would not be surprised to see LBJ avg 8pts 8asts 8rbs, or something close to that

Exactly what the US team would need...hopefully Lebron/Wade/Bryant can let their egos down and not get into a pissing match. I know Wade can, just not sure about Bryant and Lebron. Of course, Lebron is like 19 so we might be expecting a bit much.

What Lebron have you been watching? While some players tend to the shoot the ball to much and in doing so hurt their team, IMO James doesn't fit this category. Heck, halfway through the season people complained that he didn't take the last shots to win ballgames, but instead passing it to open teammates. So then he starts winning ball games and playoff games with last second shots. Now, people are questioning his ego? Ranks #3 in the NBA in Points Per Game(31.4)

Ranks #12 in the NBA in Assists Per Game(6.6)

Ranks #15 in the NBA in Steals Per Game(1.56)

Ranks #2 in the NBA in Minutes Per Game(42.5)

Ranks #2 in the NBA in Minutes Played(3361.0)

Ranks #2 in the NBA in Field Goals Made(875.0)

Ranks #2 in the NBA in Field Goal Attempts(1823.0)

Ranks #19 in the NBA in Three-Point Field Goal Attempts(379.0)

Ranks #6 in the NBA in Free Throws(601.0)

Ranks #3 in the NBA in Free Throw Attempts(814.0)

Ranks #19 in the NBA in Defensive Rebounds(481.0)

Ranks #10 in the NBA in Assists(521.0)

Ranks #16 in the NBA in Steals(123.0)

Ranks #2 in the NBA in Points(2478.0)

Ranks #3 in the NBA in Field Goals Per 48 Minutes(12.5)

Ranks #3 in the NBA in Field-Goal Attempts Per 48 Minutes(26.04)

Ranks #7 in the NBA in Free Throws Per 48 Minutes(8.58)

Ranks #6 in the NBA in Free Throw Attempts Per 48 Minutes(11.63)

Ranks #3 in the NBA in Points Per 48 Minutes(35.4)

Ranks #6 in the NBA in Total Turnovers(260.0)

Ranks #2 in the NBA in Total Efficiency Points(2323.0)

Ranks #2 in the NBA in Efficiency Ranking(29.41)

Ranks #6 in the NBA in Efficiency Ranking Per 48 Minutes(33.18)

Ranks #6 in the NBA in Turnovers Per Game(3.29)

Ranks #18 in the NBA in Turnovers Per 48 Minutes(3.71)

Also, here's the Efficiency Rankings for James, Wade, and Kobe:

James #2

Bryant #5

Wade #7

And no, James isn't without criticism. He plays lackadaisical defense, often times looking for the steal and losing man. He shoots a poor free throw percentage, sometimes takes ill-advised 3 pointers, and can get sloppy handling the ball. Those are things he needs to work on this offseason.

But his ego on the court, isn't one of them.

my .02

 

[LHUCKS]

He plays lackadaisical defense, often times looking for the steal and losing man.  He shoots a poor free throw percentage, sometimes takes ill-advised 3 pointers, and can get sloppy handling the ball.  Those are things he needs to work on this offseason.

These are the exact qualities that have killed the US team the past two olympics...a better question is...what olympics have you been watching?Do you realize that most of the stats you posted are meaningless in team basketball?

I'd bench his ### if he starts shooting a ####ty percentage and falls asleep on Defense...six assists and a couple of steals wont cover that up.

I'm not saying Lebron can't improve and I'm not saying that Lebron shouldn't be on the team. As a matter of fact he'd be my current starter, but if he plays the same way he does in the NBA I'd pull him for an unselfish playmaker that plays D and can shoot a high FG percentage in a second.

 

[Assani Fisher]

I'd love to see Bruce Bowen on the team and think he would be a great addition... a guy that prides himself on playing D. You know Bowen would be fine with only playing spot minutes and when matchups deemed that he should be on the court for defensive purposes. He'd be a great role player for the team... and would be a difference maker in a lot of small, but important ways.

All of you guys continue to pick way too many star players. I'd say that you need a max of 3 all stars on the team. Other than that, fill it up with role players.

 

[LHUCKS]

I'd love to see Bruce Bowen on the team and think he would be a great addition... a guy that prides himself on playing D.  You know Bowen would be fine with only playing spot minutes and when matchups deemed that he should be on the court for defensive purposes.  He'd be a great role player for the team... and would be a difference maker in a lot of small, but important ways.

All of you guys continue to pick way too many star players. I'd say that you need a max of 3 all stars on the team. Other than that, fill it up with role players.

, although some star players can also be good role players...see Brand, Duncan, Paul etc.

 

[Assani Fisher]

I'd love to see Bruce Bowen on the team and think he would be a great addition... a guy that prides himself on playing D.  You know Bowen would be fine with only playing spot minutes and when matchups deemed that he should be on the court for defensive purposes.  He'd be a great role player for the team... and would be a difference maker in a lot of small, but important ways.

All of you guys continue to pick way too many star players. I'd say that you need a max of 3 all stars on the team. Other than that, fill it up with role players.

, although some star players can also be good role players...see Brand, Duncan, Paul etc.

I agree with that. Personally, I'd build the team defense first. With any all star type team, you're going to have tons of offense, so I wouldn't even worry about that. Great offensive players but average defenders like Wade or Lebron would never even come close to making my team. WE DON'T NEED MORE OFFENSE. We need more team play and more defense. Build your team that way, and the offense will come naturally.Guys like Bowen, Prince, Artest, and B Wallace would definitely be on my team.

 

[Jules Winnfield]

Too many post to wade through...Did KG say "no" to playing on this team?

 

[Mike T]

I'd love to see Bruce Bowen on the team and think he would be a great addition... a guy that prides himself on playing D. You know Bowen would be fine with only playing spot minutes and when matchups deemed that he should be on the court for defensive purposes. He'd be a great role player for the team... and would be a difference maker in a lot of small, but important ways.

All of you guys continue to pick way too many star players. I'd say that you need a max of 3 all stars on the team. Other than that, fill it up with role players.

, although some star players can also be good role players...see Brand, Duncan, Paul etc.

I agree with that. Personally, I'd build the team defense first. With any all star type team, you're going to have tons of offense, so I wouldn't even worry about that. Great offensive players but average defenders like Wade or Lebron would never even come close to making my team. WE DON'T NEED MORE OFFENSE. We need more team play and more defense. Build your team that way, and the offense will come naturally.Guys like Bowen, Prince, Artest, and B Wallace would definitely be on my team.

Defense is a grea idea, but if I have the whole NBA to choose from, i'm staying as far away from Artest as possible, and i'm an Artest fan. Just not worth the risk when you could get another good player.

 

[Harrison Stevens]

I'd love to see Bruce Bowen on the team and think he would be a great addition... a guy that prides himself on playing D.  You know Bowen would be fine with only playing spot minutes and when matchups deemed that he should be on the court for defensive purposes.  He'd be a great role player for the team... and would be a difference maker in a lot of small, but important ways.

All of you guys continue to pick way too many star players. I'd say that you need a max of 3 all stars on the team. Other than that, fill it up with role players.

, although some star players can also be good role players...see Brand, Duncan, Paul etc.

I agree with that. Personally, I'd build the team defense first. With any all star type team, you're going to have tons of offense, so I wouldn't even worry about that. Great offensive players but average defenders like Wade or Lebron would never even come close to making my team. WE DON'T NEED MORE OFFENSE. We need more team play and more defense. Build your team that way, and the offense will come naturally.Guys like Bowen, Prince, Artest, and B Wallace would definitely be on my team.

Out of the top 8 players or so that have been named, who do you view as a defensive liability?

 

[Capella]

I'd love to see Bruce Bowen on the team and think he would be a great addition... a guy that prides himself on playing D.  You know Bowen would be fine with only playing spot minutes and when matchups deemed that he should be on the court for defensive purposes.  He'd be a great role player for the team... and would be a difference maker in a lot of small, but important ways.

All of you guys continue to pick way too many star players. I'd say that you need a max of 3 all stars on the team. Other than that, fill it up with role players.

, although some star players can also be good role players...see Brand, Duncan, Paul etc.

I agree with that. Personally, I'd build the team defense first. With any all star type team, you're going to have tons of offense, so I wouldn't even worry about that. Great offensive players but average defenders like Wade or Lebron would never even come close to making my team. WE DON'T NEED MORE OFFENSE. We need more team play and more defense. Build your team that way, and the offense will come naturally.Guys like Bowen, Prince, Artest, and B Wallace would definitely be on my team.

Out of the top 8 players or so that have been named, who do you view as a defensive liability?

There's no need for Bruce Bowen when you have Kobe and Wade.

 

[Assani Fisher]

I'd love to see Bruce Bowen on the team and think he would be a great addition... a guy that prides himself on playing D.  You know Bowen would be fine with only playing spot minutes and when matchups deemed that he should be on the court for defensive purposes.  He'd be a great role player for the team... and would be a difference maker in a lot of small, but important ways.

All of you guys continue to pick way too many star players. I'd say that you need a max of 3 all stars on the team. Other than that, fill it up with role players.

, although some star players can also be good role players...see Brand, Duncan, Paul etc.

I agree with that. Personally, I'd build the team defense first. With any all star type team, you're going to have tons of offense, so I wouldn't even worry about that. Great offensive players but average defenders like Wade or Lebron would never even come close to making my team. WE DON'T NEED MORE OFFENSE. We need more team play and more defense. Build your team that way, and the offense will come naturally.Guys like Bowen, Prince, Artest, and B Wallace would definitely be on my team.

Out of the top 8 players or so that have been named, who do you view as a defensive liability?

I don't view them as liabilities necessarily, but I view them as offensive-first type players. I would build around great defenders and average offensive players because I don't think scoring will be a problem for NBA calibre players against international competition. My philosophy is to build a great defensive starting 5 with decent offense and have a scoring spark come off your bench as the 6th man. Maybe something like thisG J Kidd

SG K Bryant

SF T Prince

PF B Wallace

C M Camby

1st guard off bench: D Wade

1st big man off bench: D Howard(Amare if healthy)

If I could get Duncan or Garnett to play, then I'd put them in the starting lineup of course. I know that I said earlier that I wouldn't want Wade on my team, but as a 6th man I actually like him a lot. I think that this would be a hard working group of guys who are very appriciative of their chance to play for their country. Bryant would be more than willing to shoulder the scoring load, Kidd and Prince could run the floor well together(and Camby too for a big man), and this team should be lock-down on defense. And if they struggle on offense, then we have scoring punch iwth Wade and Howard off the bench to provide a spark.

Edit: If Duncan and Garnett play, then I'd just go with: Kidd, Bryant, Prince, Garnett, and Duncan as the starting 5. And in that case, I'd build my bench more around role players and specialists than offensive sparks because with that starting 5 I don't think offense would be as much of a problem.

 

[Dave Baker]

Sorry to see so many offensive types on the list. Battier is about the only player I think is a positive move for the team. They need some bruisers who are only focused on playing inside defense and getting boards without any regard for scoring.

The US keeps losing because they keep getting players who are offensive-minded.

 

[Capella]

Sorry to see so many offensive types on the list. Battier is about the only player I think is a positive move for the team. They need some bruisers who are only focused on playing inside defense and getting boards without any regard for scoring.

The US keeps losing because they keep getting players who are offensive-minded.

Dwight Howard down?

 

[Doug B]

Half of this roster is full of NBA mentality scorers...the type of player that kills your international squad...see Carmelo Anthony.

This is a good basis for discussion:1) What's needed in international play versus what's needed in NBA play

2) Just what was the U.S. team lacking in Athens? Not athleticism, obviously. Was it strictly problems with team work, chemistry, etc.?

One thing ISTM the U.S. team will need is at least two jump-shooting freaks ... even if they're only situational guys. I noticed other teams in Athens hitting threes at will versus the U.S. ... the U.S. team needs to be able to match that.

 

[Doug B]

You need guys that don't turn the ball over and shut down the opposing player...that's what Bowen does.

The other international teams always seem to have at least one three-point wizard that buries the U.S. ... if Bowen can help with that issue, he belongs.

 

[Doug B]

Guys like Bowen, Prince, Artest, and B Wallace would definitely be on my team.

Good call on Tayshaun Prince. Inclusion of Wallace would depend a lot on how the top international teams look in the middle.

 

[Dave Baker]

Sorry to see so many offensive types on the list.  Battier is about the only player I think is a positive move for the team.  They need some bruisers who are only focused on playing inside defense and getting boards without any regard for scoring.

The US keeps losing because they keep getting players who are offensive-minded.

Dwight Howard down?

I like Howard, but that's only one player, and I don't think Howard is that strong of an inside player, especially defensively. The US roster should be filled with three or four, or maybe five scorers and the rest role players. Guys who literally do not want to score. All they want to do is play defense and get boards. Like Ben Wallace. Battier is exactly the kind of player this team needs but I doubt he plays the 40 minutes per game that I think he should. Instead, they'll have offensive minded players on the court mostly, as that's the make-up of their team.To be honest, though, there just aren't that many players in the NBA that fit this role.

 

[Capella]

I like Howard, but that's only one player, and I don't think Howard is that strong of an inside player,

Egads. You sure about that?

 

[Oscar]

I cannot wait for Kobe,Lebron and Wade to play together. If everyone else lets these guys lead the team, and play second fiddle a gold medal is a shoe in.

Anyone know when they will be in Vegas this summer? That might be an excuse to get out there.

Edit: my 12 would be

PG-Wade, Paul, Arenas

SG-Kobe, Redd

SF-Lebron, Odom, Marion

PF-Brand, Bosh

C- Amare, Howard

Carmello Anthony will make the team.

 

[Dave Baker]

I like Howard, but that's only one player, and I don't think Howard is that strong of an inside player,

Egads. You sure about that?

Am I sure I think Howard is not a terribly strong inside defensive player? Yes.

 

[scoobus]

I cannot wait for Kobe,Lebron and Wade to play together. If everyone else lets these guys lead the team, and play second fiddle a gold medal is a shoe in.

Anyone know when they will be in Vegas this summer? That might be an excuse to get out there.

Edit: my 12 would be

PG-Wade, Paul, Arenas

SG-Kobe, Redd

SF-Lebron, Odom, Marion

PF-Brand, Bosh

C- Amare, Howard

Carmello Anthony will make the team.

I highly doubt it, and I'm a big Anthony fan

 

[Capella]

I like Howard, but that's only one player, and I don't think Howard is that strong of an inside player,

Egads. You sure about that?

Am I sure I think Howard is not a terribly strong inside defensive player? Yes.

Well, he was 2nd in the league in defensive boards and put up a block and a half a game. Also, he's putting up more boards, blocks and has a higher PER than his counterparts -- by a substantially large margin at center. So, he's doing something right.

http://www.82games.com/0506/05ORL14C.HTM

 

[Dave Baker]

I like Howard, but that's only one player, and I don't think Howard is that strong of an inside player,

Egads. You sure about that?

Am I sure I think Howard is not a terribly strong inside defensive player? Yes.

Well, he was 2nd in the league in defensive boards and put up a block and a half a game. Also, he's putting up more boards, blocks and has a higher PER than his counterparts -- by a substantially large margin at center. So, he's doing something right.

http://www.82games.com/0506/05ORL14C.HTM

I never said he wasn't a good player, and I'm well aware of his numbers. I just don't happen to think of him as being a strong defensive player inside the post. I base this on my opinion only and from watching him play.Maybe he will improve, as he's very young still. Maybe I'm wrong. All I know is when I watch him, I see defensive weaknesses inside and almost a soft looking inside player.

 

[Capella]

I like Howard, but that's only one player, and I don't think Howard is that strong of an inside player,

Egads. You sure about that?

Am I sure I think Howard is not a terribly strong inside defensive player? Yes.

Well, he was 2nd in the league in defensive boards and put up a block and a half a game. Also, he's putting up more boards, blocks and has a higher PER than his counterparts -- by a substantially large margin at center. So, he's doing something right.

http://www.82games.com/0506/05ORL14C.HTM

I never said he wasn't a good player, and I'm well aware of his numbers. I just don't happen to think of him as being a strong defensive player inside the post. I base this on my opinion only and from watching him play.Maybe he will improve, as he's very young still. Maybe I'm wrong. All I know is when I watch him, I see defensive weaknesses inside and almost a soft looking inside player.

I probably watched about 60 Magic games this past year. Sometimes against my will.Never once did I think he was a soft defensive player. Maybe you're confusing him with Hedo?

 

[UOFI_316]

Isn't the big knock against our previous "teams" that we just took the 12 biggest names that we could and told them to go play?? And this time around they were going to take more team players, who know their role, don't care about the starlight, will come off the bench and ##### and moan about only playing 10 minutes, or having to play behind someone.

I though at one point they were throwing around names like Brian Cardinal, Kirk Hinrich, Battier as they fit more into the TEAM mentality, are willing to get on the floor....

On the list, other than Redd I do not see someone who stands out as a 3pt shooter, a need in international ball to shot over the zones.

 

[Leroy Hoard]

They should just send the current NBA champs anytime we need a crew and throw mad bonuses their way.

rare

 

[TLEF316]

dwight howard is anything but soft, and he is pretty much a lock to make the team.

The guys who are saying we should pick all defensive players just dont get it. Of course we need defense, but not at the cost of playing 4 on 5 down the other end. Ben Wallace is a great NBA player, but he isnt well suited for the international game. When we play European teams that take their big guys outside, it does no good to have wallace in there. Should he be on the team? maybe. But not a starter.

I think prince should be on the team though, as he can contribute on offense and has a great all around game.

Bowen is also very solid, but with Kobe on the team, we wouldnt need him. Yeah, he can make that 3 from the corner, but he doesnt do much else on offense. Kobe defends just as well as bowen and is obviously a world class offensive player as well.

too many stars is a bad thing, but IMO there is a big diference between sending Stephon Marbury and sending Kobe bryant. Other teams have stars as well, so we need to send ours. Just need to pick guys who play the right way and will accept roles.

 

[Dave Baker]

I probably watched about 60 Magic games this past year. Sometimes against my will.

Never once did I think he was a soft defensive player. Maybe you're confusing him with Hedo?

You watched about 50 more than me. Of course, that doesn't mean you're right. It could very well be that you're confusing rebounding and blocking shots with playing good defense, or that's I'm ignoring it more than I should. Again, I'm going more with what I see the dozen or less times I saw him.I saw him pushed around a little more than I'd like, with offensive players getting better positions inside than they should have. He looks a little sluggish at times, especially when he isn't included on offense. He then slacks off on defense from time to time.

Maybe I expect too much, because I see Howard at times be exceptional on defense. And maybe I didn't see him play enough and only caught glimpses of him at his worst.

 

[Your Mother]

Bump. Here's who I'd select for Beijing:

PG: Paul

SG: Bryant

SF: James

PF: Howard

C: Chandler

Reserves:

PG: D. Williams, Billups, Prince, Anthony, M. Miller, Stoudemire, Boozer.

Not a fan of Redd overall, and I'd leave Kidd off. Howard/Chandler are a formidable duo up front, although K's penchant is to go small.

 

[Dexter]

Thought this was pretty cool. I hadn't seen this yet...should be a sick team.

http://www.insidehoops.com/usa-2006-08-030506.shtml

Carmelo Anthony

Gilbert Arenas

Shane Battier

Chauncey Billups

Chris Bosh

Bruce Bowen

Elton Brand

Kobe Bryant

Dwight Howard

LeBron James

Antawn Jamison

Joe Johnson

Shawn Marion

Brad Miller

Adam Morrison

Lamar Odom

Chris Paul

Paul Pierce

J.J. Redick

Michael Redd

Luke Ridnour

Amare Stoudemire

Dwyane Wade

Head Coach: Mike Krzyzewski

Assistant Coach: Jim Boeheim

Assistant Coach: Mike D'Antoni

Assistant Coach: Nate McMillan

Who do you guys think will be the starters? I'm thinking the 5 bolded players are the 5 best players, but probably wouldn't be able to all start, not a true PG there. Not sure if Amare will be 100 percent either. Very dissapointed Iverson wasn't put on the team though...I mean Ridnour over Iverson is a joke.

PG Chris Paul - This is a no question 100% lock and it's not even closeSG Kobe Bryant - See above

SF Lebron James - See above

PF Amare Stoudemire - Elton Brand could start but I'm not sure how healthy he is.

C Dwight Howard - Only really good center on this list

 

[TLEF316]

Bump. Here's who I'd select for BeijingG: PaulSG: BryantSF: JamesPF: HowardC: ChandlerReservesG: D. Williams, Billups, Prince, Anthony, M. Miller, Stoudemire, Boozer.Not a fan of Redd overall, and I'd leave Kidd off. Howard/Chandler are a formidable duo up front, although K's penchant is to go small.

I think I'd take Redd over Miller. He played much much better at the qualifiers.A year ago, everyone thought Wade would be a lock, but that can't happen now with how banged up he has been. Plus, he doesn't bring a ton to the international game. It's gonna be tough to leave bosh off the roster, however Boozer obviously could get the nod. He's a little bit better suited to the rough play that goes on in the paint at the Olympics because of his bulk. Kidd did such a great job last summer leading this roster. He's really the one that made them go. He's got tons of international experience and is better in transition. I think I'd take him over Billups.

 

[Tau837]

Bump. Here's who I'd select for BeijingG: PaulSG: BryantSF: JamesPF: HowardC: ChandlerReservesG: D. Williams, Billups, Prince, Anthony, M. Miller, Stoudemire, Boozer.Not a fan of Redd overall, and I'd leave Kidd off. Howard/Chandler are a formidable duo up front, although K's penchant is to go small.

I think I'd take Redd over Miller. He played much much better at the qualifiers.A year ago, everyone thought Wade would be a lock, but that can't happen now with how banged up he has been. Plus, he doesn't bring a ton to the international game. It's gonna be tough to leave bosh off the roster, however Boozer obviously could get the nod. He's a little bit better suited to the rough play that goes on in the paint at the Olympics because of his bulk. Kidd did such a great job last summer leading this roster. He's really the one that made them go. He's got tons of international experience and is better in transition. I think I'd take him over Billups.

Agree on Kidd & Boozer. My take:StartersG - PaulSG - BryantSF - JamesPF - StoudemireC - HowardI think those are pretty much nobrainers. BenchG - Kidd, Deron WilliamsSG - ReddSF - AnthonyPF/C - Chandler, BoozerThat should leave one more spot for a SG/SF - Wade, Mike Miller, Prince, Battier, Joe Johnson, Durant, Marion, or Pierce.

 

[tommyGunZ]

Bump. Here's who I'd select for BeijingG: PaulSG: BryantSF: JamesPF: HowardC: ChandlerReservesG: D. Williams, Billups, Prince, Anthony, M. Miller, Stoudemire, Boozer.Not a fan of Redd overall, and I'd leave Kidd off. Howard/Chandler are a formidable duo up front, although K's penchant is to go small.

Obviously love this squad, but not sure about starting two guys whose range is 2 ft. I'd go smaller and start Carmelo over Chandler, with Howard at C.

 

[tommyGunZ]

Leaving out otherwise-obvious picks that have declined invitations like Duncan and KG, I'd takeG: Deron Williams (Chris Paul)SG: Kobe Bryant (Allen Iverson, Joe Johnson)SF: LeBron James (Tayshaun Prince, Shane Battier)PF: Amare Stoudamire (Carlos Boozer)C: Dwight Howard (Tyson Chandler)Williams gets a slight edge over Paul because in FIBA, hitting the jumper out top is more important than breaking down your man off the dribble. I also think Williams's size gives him an edge over Paul in FIBA defense. FIBA refs let a lot of moving screens up high go uncalled, and IMO Williams is better equipped than Paul to deal with that.Iverson gets the nod over 3PT specialists like Mike Miller because Iverson was USA's best player in Athens. I like Joe Johnson as the fifth guard because he can play both guard spots if necessary, and get his shot off against any international guard. No need for guys like Mike Miller with Kobe and Iverson around - Kobe will absolutely destroy the FIBA three-point line.Prince gets a spot for defensive abilities and 3PT shooting. Battier could play three positions in FIBA - he could guard most international fours if USA wants to go small and run.I like Amare as the PF because of his offensive versatility. With the trapezoid lane, it's almost more important to have a PF that can shoot from the elbow/midrange than back his man down. Boozer's energy level and willingness to mix it up gives him the nod over more skilled but skinnier guys like Bosh.Howard and Chandler won't need help from the refs to get rebounds and protect the rim. That's a good thing, because they won't be getting any. I was tempted to start Chandler because he's a better defender, but Howard is plenty big for FIBA and a bit more active offensively. Plus, that Superman #### at All-Star Weekend was the bomb.

No Melo? I thought I remembered him playing really well in '06?

 

[fsufan]

if they put their minds(play like it was the NBA finals) to it, it will not even be close.

 

[TLEF316]

yeah, i don't see how you can keep melo off of this team. He has played very very well in the last few tournaments. He's been the most consistent guy out there.

I do think that you should take 4 big guys. I don't think its about staying out of foul trouble. Team USA's greatest strength at this point is our depth. We can run wave after wave of stars without any sort of drop off. I think you need 4 true big guys on the roster. No point risking a lack of depth (due to injury or foul trouble) to get 2 defensive specialist SF's on the roster.

I do think that Kidd needs to be out there. (and will be) Even though Paul has taken his game into the stratosphere this season, coach K and the other decision makers will not forget how well he played last summer. The best way to beat team USA is to force them to play a slow tempo, which makes our guys frustrated and turns them into stand around jump shooters. Having Kidd at the points makes that pretty much impossible.

My team:

PG- Kidd (Paul, Williams)

SG- Kobe (Redd)

SF- James (Anthony, Prince)

PF- Amare (Boozer)

C- Howard (Chandler)

 

[Tau837]

Leaving out otherwise-obvious picks that have declined invitations like Duncan and KG, I'd takeG: Deron Williams (Chris Paul)SG: Kobe Bryant (Allen Iverson, Joe Johnson)SF: LeBron James (Tayshaun Prince, Shane Battier)PF: Amare Stoudamire (Carlos Boozer)C: Dwight Howard (Tyson Chandler)Williams gets a slight edge over Paul because in FIBA, hitting the jumper out top is more important than breaking down your man off the dribble. I also think Williams's size gives him an edge over Paul in FIBA defense. FIBA refs let a lot of moving screens up high go uncalled, and IMO Williams is better equipped than Paul to deal with that.Iverson gets the nod over 3PT specialists like Mike Miller because Iverson was USA's best player in Athens. I like Joe Johnson as the fifth guard because he can play both guard spots if necessary, and get his shot off against any international guard. No need for guys like Mike Miller with Kobe and Iverson around - Kobe will absolutely destroy the FIBA three-point line.Prince gets a spot for defensive abilities and 3PT shooting. Battier could play three positions in FIBA - he could guard most international fours if USA wants to go small and run.I like Amare as the PF because of his offensive versatility. With the trapezoid lane, it's almost more important to have a PF that can shoot from the elbow/midrange than back his man down. Boozer's energy level and willingness to mix it up gives him the nod over more skilled but skinnier guys like Bosh.Howard and Chandler won't need help from the refs to get rebounds and protect the rim. That's a good thing, because they won't be getting any. I was tempted to start Chandler because he's a better defender, but Howard is plenty big for FIBA and a bit more active offensively. Plus, that Superman #### at All-Star Weekend was the bomb.

Iverson is not on the roster and is not a candidate. Here is the roster:Carmelo AnthonyGilbert ArenasShane BattierChauncey BillupsCarlos BoozerChris BoshBruce BowenElton BrandKobe BryantTyson ChandlerNick CollisonKevin DurantKirk HinrichDwight HowardLeBron JamesAntawn JamisonJoe JohnsonJason KiddShawn MarionBrad MillerMike MillerAdam MorrisonGreg OdenLamar OdomChris PaulPaul PierceTayshaun PrinceMichael ReddJ.J. RedickLuke RidnourAmare StoudemireDwyane WadeDeron WilliamsThe roster for the 2007 FIBA qualifying tournament was:AnthonyBillupsBryantChandlerHowardJamesKiddMike MillerPrinceReddStoudemireDeron WilliamsThe usual starters were Kidd, Bryant, Anthony, James, and Howard. Kind of hard to see two starters (Kidd, Anthony) from a year ago being left off the team, given they are healthy.Anthony led that team with 21.2 ppg in 19.4 minutes per game, shooting 61.3% from the floor and 57.4% from 3 point range. While I don't particularly like him, I really can't see him being left off the team, unless it's because he just got a DUI.

 

[Tau837]

yeah, i don't see how you can keep melo off of this team. He has played very very well in the last few tournaments. He's been the most consistent guy out there. I do think that you should take 4 big guys. I don't think its about staying out of foul trouble. Team USA's greatest strength at this point is our depth. We can run wave after wave of stars without any sort of drop off. I think you need 4 true big guys on the roster. No point risking a lack of depth (due to injury or foul trouble) to get 2 defensive specialist SF's on the roster.I do think that Kidd needs to be out there. (and will be) Even though Paul has taken his game into the stratosphere this season, coach K and the other decision makers will not forget how well he played last summer. The best way to beat team USA is to force them to play a slow tempo, which makes our guys frustrated and turns them into stand around jump shooters. Having Kidd at the points makes that pretty much impossible. My teamG- Kidd (Paul, Williams)SG- Kobe (Redd)SF- James (Anthony, Prince)PF- Amare (Boozer)C- Howard (Chandler)

 

[Assani Fisher]

Bump. Here's who I'd select for BeijingG: PaulSG: BryantSF: JamesPF: HowardC: ChandlerReservesG: D. Williams, Billups, Prince, Anthony, M. Miller, Stoudemire, Boozer.Not a fan of Redd overall, and I'd leave Kidd off. Howard/Chandler are a formidable duo up front, although K's penchant is to go small.

I don't like playing Howard and Chandler together because offensively they have limited range and would really clog up the lane. Amare needs to be on the floor. Plus Amare's defensive liabilities aren't as pronounced against international competition imo, especially if he can play the PF.It really depends how much Kidd has fallen off, as he looked great during Team USA intersquad games. If hes fallen off then yeah I'd leave him off the team and go with Billups and Deron as the backups to Paul.Kobe is obvious. Honestly I wouldn't mind starting Melo over Lebron, but theres 0% chance of that ever happening. The ball stays in Lebron's hands too much imo. When watching these games last summer was when I firmly became convinced that Kobe>Lebron(although the gap is obviously narrowing and Lebron SHOULD be better one day).

 

[tommyGunZ]

The usual starters were Kidd, Bryant, Anthony, James, and Howard. Kind of hard to see two starters (Kidd, Anthony) from a year ago being left off the team, given they are healthy.Anthony led that team with 21.2 ppg in 19.4 minutes per game, shooting 61.3% from the floor and 57.4% from 3 point range. While I don't particularly like him, I really can't see him being left off the team, unless it's because he just got a DUI.

Yeah - I remember thinking that Anthony's game was tailor made for FIBA and that he had made the leap into the NBA elite in that tourney. He was the 2nd best player on the floor most of the time, IMO.