Loaded with outrageous talent, the United States men’s basketball team insist they will be checking egos at the door at the Beijing Olympics.
Boasting Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, the NBA’s Most Valuable Player and its leading scorer, the Americans are favourites to win gold, although 2004 Athens gold medallists Argentina and world champions Spain will push them all the way.
The U.S. have won 12 Olympic men’s titles but have often been accused of arrogance. The current crop, who play hosts China in their opening Olympic game on Aug. 10, will have a different attitude. “You can’t be arrogant and win!” said American coach Mike Krzyzewski.
The arrogance of old has been replaced by humility, individualism and show-boating by team ethic. They have looked unstoppable in their warm-up games. But will it be enough for the ‘Redeem Team’ to win gold ahead of sharp-shooting Argentina and Spain?
PHOTO: Kobe Bryant and LeBron James of the U.S. react during their friendly basketball game against Russia in Shanghai August 3, 2008. REUTERS/Aly Song
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I thnk the USA are the team to beat in Beijing. They have had a good preparation and the players are all keen to work as a unit for the good of the team.
Gone are the days where the superstars of the NBA could turn up and win the Olympic gold. It will take a team effort. I think the players realise this and will do what it takes to once again have the US rule at the Olympics.
- Posted by Rob Keating