Even without MVP LeBron James and Stephen Curry, the USA is still the favorites to win the gold for third consecutive time at the Rio Olympic Games. The Americans have won 17 consecutive games at the Olympics dating back to the 2004 bronze medal game at the 2004 Athens Olympics
USA Basketball managing director Jerry Colangelo has chose Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Durant, Paul George, Kyrie Irving, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, Harrison Barnes, Jimmy Butler, Kyle Lowry, DeMar DeRozan, DeAndre Jordan and DeMarcus Cousins to represent the country in the Olympics.
Durant and Anthony are the only players with Olympic experience after a number of stars, including James, decided to skip Rio.
Players who withdraw from consideration were MVP LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Russell Westbrook, Chris Paul, Kawhi Leonard, LaMarcus Aldridge, John Wall, Blake Griffin, Anthony Davis and James Harden.
“First of all, you have 12 dedicated guys who have committed to be part of this and represent their country and that in itself is a big statement,” Colangelo told USA TODAY Sports. “Some just came off a championship series. We’re appreciative of that commitment.
“Number two, this is a very strong team. There’s been a lot said about those who are not participating, and it should be more about who is participating and what they bring to the table. It’s a deep roster. We have a number of guys who could play 2-3 positions, and it gives Coach K (Mike Krzyzewski) several options of how we can play.”
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