USA basketball has selected its first four players to represent in the qualifying tournament for the Olympics. Taking place this summer, the U.S. will have to participate and do well in this tournament because of their poor showing at the previous Olympics. Jason Kidd, Tracy McGrady, Ray Allen and Tim Duncan have already agreed to participate. It is expected that Kobe Bryant will agree shortly. But who will the other eight players be?
There is a rumor that Mike Bibby will be the backup point guard for Jason Kidd. Bibby is a pass-first point guard with a nice shot and would be a good choice. This leaves six spots on the team. Kevin Garnett would be a great addition. Stick Garnett at power forward with McGrady at the other forward position, Kidd and Kobe at guards, and Duncan at center. This is an overwhelming starting five.
My next pick would be Chris Webber. Webber is having an amazing season. His numbers before his most recent injury were MVP-like. He's a scorer and rebounder and one of the best passing big men in the league.
Allen Iverson would be the next person I'd ask. It seems like a lot of NBA people don't want Iverson on the team. Although Iverson is a scorer, he has the ability to be a team player if need be.
This leaves 3 spots. Let's add Jermaine O'Neal and Ben Wallace to the team. These two players will seek revenge from the previous Olympics. Jermaine O'Neal is a scorer, rebounder and shot-blocker. Ben Wallace is another no-brainer. He's willing to rebound, block shots and work hard without scoring. A guy who will work and not want the ball is exactly what this team will need with that starting five.
Here's a fun idea. For the final spot, how about LeBron James?
Lets review my twelve picks: Jason Kidd, Kobe Bryant, Mike Bibby, Allen Iverson and Ray Allen at guard. Tracy McGrady, LeBron James, Kevin Garnett, Chris Webber at forward and Tim Duncan, Jermaine O'Neal and Ben Wallace at center. Going to pick the U.S. to lose now? Doubt it.
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