Guards:
Chris Paul (pg)
Deron Williams (pg)
Jason Kidd (pg)
Kobe Bryant (sg)
Dwyane Wade (sg)
Michael Redd (sg)
Forwards:
Carmelo Anthony
Tayshaun Prince
LeBron James
Carlos Boozer
Chris Bosh
Centers:
Dwight Howard
Head Coach:
Mike Krzyzewski
Assistant Coaches:
Jim Boeheim
Mike D’Antoni
Nate McMillan
Based on initial reaction, this is quite a team. There is not a collection of players from any country in the world that has anywhere near as much talent as this group. On paper, Team USA should cruise through the Olympics to Gold. Competitors should have no business being in close games with the Red, White, in Blue.
Now saying this, they will…
The problem, as America has found out over the years, is that the world has caught up. Not only have they caught up, but they are becoming all around better basketball players. While Americans focus on glory, the rest of the world practices the basics. While we try to dunk, drive one-on-one, and shoot threes, the rest of the world practices free throws and bounce passes. And with the rapid influx of foreign players into the NBA, the contrast in fundamentals has come to light. Nowhere is this more obvious than the free throw line. The most simple and fundamental thing in basketball is a free throw. And nothing pisses me off more about American basketball than players, guards especially, not being able to hit their free throws – the most basic shot in the game. I don’t care if you can dribble behind your back and through your legs en route to drawing a foul in the lane if you can’t hit your free throw! Foreign players on the other hand have no trouble with free throws. Big guys, small guys – German guys, Argentina guys – they all hit free throws…
Along with the superior free throw shooting, foreign countries have gained ground based on playing simple team basketball. The American game has turned into one of super star vs. super star, with players standing around watching all too much. There is much less movement and terrible passing. As our game deteriorates, other countries are playing team oriented basketball. They do not have stars that hog the ball and take all the shots. They pass the ball around and move until the best quality opportunity opens up.
It is important to point out, however, that these foreign countries gain significant advantages in their team cohesiveness based on the fact that most of the players play together year round. They practice and prepare to play as a group on a regular basis, while the American team has about two months – tops – to prepare for the Olympics. Most other countries’ players are totally familiar with sets, style, and their teammate’s strengths and weaknesses.
Lastly, the level of significance most basketball players across the world place on the Olympics is much higher than in America. When Team USA steps onto the court against a challenger, they are playing a team full of national pride and gratitude. While this is an assumption, it seems to be pretty clear that other countries are playing much more for the glory and respect of their country than Team USA is.
All things considered, this team should still win the Gold. Realistically, they should not lose a single game. In fact Team USA has lost a total of only 5 games in Olympic play, which started in 1936. Following the introduction of Pros to the Olympics, Team USA won 24 consecutive games - a streak that came to a sudden halt with a 5-3 showing that resulted in the bronze metal at the 2004 games. Back to team though - they have quality coaching and a good mix of players. I like the solid point guard play that is complimented by highly skilled shooting guards. The forwards are phenomenal as well. My only problem with the team is having only one center, Dwight Howard. I think the team will be OK though based on having players that can focus on the defensive end of the court, which is what has killed us in our three previous blunders on the World stage. So Good Luck America. I know that there will naturally be some challenges – players will have off nights and other team will have special moments - but this group of players has far too much talent and skill to be matched by any other country.
Make us proud boys!
