This Is Our Team: Chris Bosh

He's been to the Junior World Championships. He's made the playoffs. But the top prize has always been just out of reach.

As one of the most sought-after seniors in high school, Chris Bosh got his first taste of international action early in his career. At just 18 years old, he was invited to be a part of the Junior World Championship. But that early taste instantly turned sour; with a 4-1 record, the team was forced to settle for bronze. And with the Senior Team's losses that year, it seemed like Team USA's era of dominance was officially over.

But for Chris Bosh, the ride was only beginning.

After just one year of college, the 19-year old Bosh announced his entrance into the 2003 NBA Draft. Picked fourth by the Toronto Raptors, he immediately showcased his all-around game. He had the quickness to beat his defenders on the blocks, and developed the jumper to take them outside. His 11.5 points and 7.4 rebounds per game earned him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Team.

But with all his success, his determination to win never faltered. Each year, he steadily increased his scoring average. Starting at 16.8 points per game in 2004-05 and 22.5 points per game in 2005-06, it wasn’t long before he was an All-Star. His extraordinary development and leadership in Toronto made him an automatic selection for the 2006 U.S. National Team.

With that, Chris found himself with another chance at the international stage.

His second international appearance, however, didn’t end much differently than the first. Team USA came up short at the World Championships in Japan, though Chris’s game was polished and on point. In limited time, CB4 put up 6.8 points and grabbed four rebounds a game, finishing the tournament ranked sixth in field goal percentage.

Nevertheless, he was coming home with another bronze medal in his hand.

After leading the Raptors to the playoffs for the first time in 5 years, Bosh was offered a place at the 2007 FIBA Americas tournament. Another chance for international redemption was at his fingers. His length and quickness were exactly what the team needed, someone to finally give the big Central and South American men a run for their money.

But before the tournament even got underway, Bosh injured his foot and had to withdraw. That turned out to be a golden year for Team USA, as they took first place and redeemed lost honor. It was an exciting time to be on the Team USA roster. And while Bosh went on to recover, play well in the regular season, and lead his NBA team to the playoffs – again – he always regretted missing that shot at the gold.

Now more than ever, CB4 is ready to don the USA colors and battle the world. He’s been there before, tasted victory and defeat, and won his share of second place. But now, thanks to his hard work, determination and strength, he’s getting another shot. And this time around, he won’t let his chance go by.

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