It's year long basketball in 2008 USA Pre-Olympic schedule. http://www.usabasketball.com/news.php?news_page=ESPNtelevise
It's my understanding that Canada did not even qualify for the Olympics, yet they seem to be hanging in there, even though it's just the 1st Q. Kobe forcing up Kobe-style 9.985/10 degree of difficulty jumpers... Lebron with his guarantee... Harbingers of doom for Team USA?
Who's the knucklehead here that said (in the NBA Forum a while back) Team USA didn't need Dwyane Wade? I hope today's game reminded you of how good he is. Good show tonight against a sorry Canada squad. Like the announcer said, the only thing that matters is when the final 8 starts.
Kobe, Lebron, Melo, and Wade will get theirs but I think if Michael Redd keeps shooting like this, no one can stop Team USA. That outside touch is what they severely lacked in 2004.
And they have to rebound and defend better, especially high PnRs. One disadvantage Team USA will always have is the instinct to set legal NBA picks when FIBA allows you to almost act like an offensive lineman. Some of the picks by Canada tonight were outrageous, but legal, under FIBA rules. If our players had the nuances of international rules mastered like the other national teams they would steamroll to the gold medal like a freight train.
i like the FIBA rules better. as long as you don't put your hands on the player, i don't see why you can't set picks like that. same goes with the goal tending rules. FIBA is way better. if the ball doesn't go in right away, you take it. same goes to offensive side too. if your teammate doesn't make it, just stuff it in. don't wait until it clears the rim.
I disagree completely, but to each his own. Actually, I agree with allowing more contact, but everything else I disagree with.
It's my understanding that Turkey did not even qualify for the Olympics, yet they seem to be hanging in there, even though it's just the 1st Q. Harbinger of doom for Team USA?
