Nike Basketball News

Lisa Leslie: A Career Retrospective

hoffcobra — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:00:11 GMT

“If you can dream it, you can achieve it.”

Lisa Leslie

She was 12. Already five years into her childhood dream of becoming a TV weather reporter and model. She loathed the idea of strangers bugging her about whether or not she played sports - let alone basketball.

But that same year, Lisa Leslie picked up a ball for the very first time. And she’s yet to put it down.

Until right about now.

The Los Angeles Sparks have once again clinched a spot in the WNBA playoffs. And whether they go down swinging in the Western Conference's opening round or ride off into the sunset as WNBA Champions, the 2009 season will be Lisa's last.

She was 14 when her goals changed. Notice the word choice: goals. Not dreams. See, Lisa still dreams of being on TV - continuing her career as a commentator and actress. And she’s already accomplished that whole modeling thing, stalking runways with the delicate beauty and effortless grace of a ballet dancer. Chalk that one up to Lisa’s competitive, worldly spirit: she’s always refused to be pigeonholed by her athletic blessings and what she’s capable of between the white lines of the basketball court.

To be honest, 94 feet of hardwood was never going to be enough for a girl who stood 6’0” in sixth grade and looks at the world as a “glass-is-overflowing” playground of limitless possibility.

Back to that once-upon-a-time goal change.

When Lisa was 14 she decided to become the best female basketball player in the world. A laundry list of accolades later, it’s safe to say Lisa put a check mark next to that one on her long-term list:

High School

2 California State Championships
101 points in a single game

University of Southern California

4 Consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances
Graduated as the all-time Pac-10 leader in points, rebounds and blocked shots

WNBA

2 League Championships (2001, 2002)
First player to be named regular season, All-Star Game and playoff MVP (2001)

Olympics

4-time Gold Medal Winner (1996, 2000, 2004, 2008)
First team sport athlete to win four consecutive Gold Medals

She’s been called the female Michael Jordan. And as the first player to dunk in a WNBA game, she knows a little about rarified air.

She’s a proud mother who took a year off at the height of her on-court prowess (2006 WNBA MVP) to have a child in 2007. And then busted ass to get back in shape and claim her record-setting fourth straight gold medal the following spring, capping off an undefeated (32-0) Olympic career.

Always a passionate competitor; forever a lady.

The WNBA and the world of basketball begin to say goodbye to Lisa at the Staples Center on September 11, 2009.

And she says hello once again to the great big world at large.

Where does Lisa Leslie rank in the pantheon of all-time athletes? Become a fan of Nike Basketball on Facebook or follow nikebasketball on Twitter to drop some knowledge.

This Is Our Team: Kobe Bryant

GHarty — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:57:42 GMT

Kobe Bryant has been working his entire life for an opportunity like this. Is he the missing link between Team USA and the gold?

In 1992, the world watched as the Dream Team changed the game forever. Boys across America dreamed of greatness, to one day join the ranks of the greatest players in history. Those boys spent every waking moment on courts, the Dream Team in their thoughts, working to be the best.

Kobe was one of those kids.

In 1996, he announced his eligibility and was snatched up by Los Angeles. In his first season, he had the honor of playing against the legendary players from Dream Team 2, returning to the league from their complete domination at the games in Atlanta.

Over the course of the next few years, Kobe dedicated himself to the game entirely, becoming the strongest young shooting guard in the league, a go-to scorer for his team and a major defensive threat. The 2000 season brought Kobe his first championship ring, his second All-Star appearance as a starter, a spot on the All-NBA 2nd team and a top slot on the All-Defensive team. And as the 2000 U.S. national team came home with gold, many fans and critics were surprised he wasn't a part of it.

In the following seasons, Kobe elevated LA to the top of the league and led them to two consecutive championship rings. He was officially one of the league's best.

Then, Team USA experienced a fall that shook the basketball world to its foundations. The national team suffered three hard losses at the Summer Games in Greece, including a 19-point defeat to Puerto Rico.

During that time, Kobe was playing his best basketball yet. With his mind-blowing 81-point game against Toronto, another All-Star appearance, the scoring championship, the All-NBA team, and the All-NBA Defensive team, he drew the attention of USA Basketball. But due to knee surgery, he was forced to miss his first taste of the international game at the 2006 World Championships.

Team USA, lacking the chemistry, passion and dedication, fell to Greece and took home bronze.

Later that year, Kobe got a second chance. Joining the ranks of a hand-selected squad of NBA greats, he threw himself full-force into their practices. Last summer, he got the chance to represent at the 2007 FIBA Americas tournament in Vegas, a qualifying tournament for Beijing.

Team USA's head coach Mike Krzyzewski said, “In Kobe we have a great player who wants to represent his country as much as anybody and he's never had a chance. He's like a little kid in his enthusiasm to play. Kobe's presence here makes us more complete."

Against Argentina – the gold medal winners in 2004 – Kobe exploded for 27 points in a 91-76 win. For the tournament, he averaged over 15 points a game, shot 46% from 3-pt range and provided the leadership crucial to a team with so many superstars.

"We're out there to win a gold medal, so each of us is going to do whatever we have to do," Bryant said. "Winning a gold medal is at the top of the list for me."

And since last summer, Kobe has elevated his game to yet another plateau. He took a trip to New Orleans for an All-Star start, brought home the league MVP award, led his team to the best record in the Western Conference, and has positioned his team to win yet another championship.

And after a historic season like this one, there's only one thing left for Kobe to do. He knows the hopes a nation rest on his shoulders – and he has never been more ready. He's taking the international court for the first time in Beijing and taking back the basketball gold medal. He's been waiting his entire life for a year like this. Team USA has been waiting for the Black Mamba.

More on Kobe
Learn his Signature Moves >>

More on Team USA
See all Team USA Bio’s »
Browse the Olympic Histories »
Meet the Competition »

This Is Our Team: LeBron James

GHarty — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:56:28 GMT

At 23, LeBron has led Team USA into international battle twice. Now, with a team of dedicated veterans and superstars, his third time could be the charm.

Before LeBron James ever stepped foot on the professional hardwood, he was being called the future of the game. He was a young phenom from Akron, a baller that could play all five positions, who easily made the transition from high school to the pros. In his very first season, he lived up to all the hype, instantly becoming king of the court.

Right after his first season, LeBron got an offer he couldn't refuse: a spot on the 2004 U.S. National Team. It was supposed to be guaranteed gold for a country that had never lost with professional players, and a perfect way to introduce him to the world.

At the Summer Games in Athens, LeBron knew he wouldn’t play major minutes because of his rookie status. But it wasn't easy to sit by and watch his team fall, while he only saw 14 minutes of action a game. It was a painful learning experience for LeBron, and an even more painful defeat for the country. History had been made and Team USA's image would forever be scarred.

"I had no idea what I was getting into," LeBron said. "Everything on the court I did not expect, but I think I'd do it again.”

Two years later, after establishing himself further as one of league's best, LeBron was made a tri-captain. He was looking toward the 2006 World Championships to redeem the country’s historic loss in Athens. Confident, and stacked with the NBA's biggest names, Team USA headed to Japan with revenge in mind.

But it wouldn’t get any better in 2006.

He led Team USA to eight straight victories at the World Championships, averaging 13.9 points per game. But in the semis, they lost to Greece – and had to settle for another bronze medal. It was a crushing loss that only left more questions about the team’s ability to play as a unit. But LeBron knew there were positives the team could build on.

“But we've gotten better and come together and become a family,” he said after the loss to Greece. “We just need to keep driving and getting better, and loving FIBA basketball because it's great. It's been good to us.”

He returned to the NBA, carrying Cleveland on his back for a magical run to the 2006-07 finals. His epic 48-point explosion in the conference finals was considered one of the best playoff performances of all time. And though he had an extraordinary season and posted record-breaking numbers, the championship trophy was just out of reach.

His next shot at redemption came last summer at the 2007 FIBA Americas tournament. He knew that to overcome past failures, he needed to make sure the team chemistry was just right.

“I always try to include all my teammates in every play. The chemistry that we have is also helpful, we’re a lot more confident now. In this team, it’s about all of us participating and making it as high as we can go,” said LeBron. “Scoring points is not important, what’s important is playing well and winning.”

With veteran teammates like Kobe and Jason Kidd, LeBron stepped up to earn his victory. In just over 22 minutes of play per tournament game, LeBron averaged over 18 points apiece. And when the team needed an extra push, he came through with a monster 31 points in the finals game against Argentina. With the gold medal, Team USA secured a spot in the 2008 Summer Games.

After a rough start to his international career, LeBron is facing another chance to capture the top prize. And following a record-breaking 2007-08 season and spectacular play in the playoffs, he's not settling for anything less than gold.

More on LeBron
Learn his Signature Moves »

More on Team USA
See all Team USA Bio’s »
Check out the Olympic Histories »
Meet the Competition »

Blogging the Journey: Coach K

GHarty — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:55:23 GMT

What’s at Stake: This week, Coach K talks about the Team USA selection process, the guys who made the cut, and what it’ll take to win.

I am so proud to be the coach of this team.

This past week really got this summer started, beginning with the press conference and team announcement on Monday in Chicago. The selection process was a difficult one, but we are extremely pleased with the team we will take to Beijing. The final selection was made based on what we have learned about these guys over the years, what kind of NBA seasons they had, where they are now in terms of injuries and fatigue, and what combination of personnel will serve us best against the international competition. We were looking at the total team concept, not just individual positions. This is not an All-Star team. Of course, there are many All-Stars on this team because a key part of the mix you need to win is talent. We have focused on learning what you need to compete in international basketball and bringing together those individuals that best meet those needs.

One of the things I have been most impressed with over the past two summers and going into our third, is the desire these players have to be on this team. It was something they felt in their hearts they had to do – represent their country. All of the 33 guys who played for the National Team over the past three summers did so because it was a commitment that was important to them. When they were unable to play because of family situations or injuries and recovery, they took the time that they needed. But all of these men committed to be a part of this team and have done a great service for the United States and for the game of basketball.

As we come together for our first team meeting and practice, there are things that we have to work on as a coaching staff and as a team. One thing I am not worried about working on is motivation. These guys are ready to play. The stakes themselves are the motivation. Not only are these guys playing for their country, they are trying to reclaim the game. Some of these guys were on the 2004 Olympic Team and are really on a mission to prove themselves. Even the ones who were not on that team share the desire to show that we can win on an international stage. There are some differences in the way you coach these guys as opposed to college players, but finding ways to motivate this team, considering our collective goal, is not a problem. These guys are professionals, they are quick learners, and they want to be the best.

This is what we have been working towards. Now that we have focused on increasing the commitment involved in being a part of USA Basketball, we hope to see increased results. We want to make our country proud, we want our service to be worthy, but we also want our efforts to produce the goals we established for ourselves.

I can’t wait for my team to arrive and to see what we can accomplish together.

This Is Our Team: Jason Kidd

GHarty — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:54:30 GMT

Is a great point guard the key to Olympic victory? With a record of 44-0 as a leader of Team USA, Jason Kidd would argue yes.

Since the invention of basketball the United States has ruled the hardwood. What started out a physical education experiment in Massachusetts has evolved into a national pastime and a global phenomenon. And since the beginning the US has made the rules, set new standards and invented superstars in the game. In international play, whenever the US stepped out on the court and set the pace, we made the plays and we took home the gold.

So much of the international game can be determined by tempo and style. Having a point guard who can adjust to and excel at any style and create the tempo is not only key, it can mean the difference between taking home the gold, or suffering a crushing defeat.

One look at Jason Kidd's international record can prove this theory. His ability to dictate the game by making sharp decisions and playing to the strengths of his teammates has led Team USA to a perfect 44-0 record when he is running the team.

In 2000 Kidd made his first Olympic appearance and as a tri-captain he guided the team to a perfect 8-0 record and a gold medal. Shooting over 50% from the field and leading the team in assists, Kidd was the perfect pass-first point guard for Team USA. He was able to recognize the opponent’s weaknesses and exploit them. He ran a fast-paced game that broke down defenses, creating shot opportunities where there were none or spreading the floor so eh could feed to an open man.

It’s no surprise that Kidd should be so successful on the international level. Ever since he turned pro, he has been the league’s biggest triple-double threat, racking up 100 in his career in so far. He has transformed franchises, taken his teams to the team finals and been an All-Star nine times. He’s simply the best point guard in the world.

But while Kidd continued to excel in the league after his gold in 2000, things changed for Team USA. Before, winning a gold medal was considered a given, but in 2004, they got a huge wake up call, losing for the first time since building a roster of professionals. For Kidd, the loss was especially hard to take since he had to sit out the 2004 Olympics with an injury.

As Team USA picked up the pieces after losses at the 2004 Olympics and again at the 2006 World Championships, Coach Mike Krzyzewski was excited to have Jason Kidd back in the lineup for Olympic qualifying at the 2007 FIBA Americas tournament.

"His veteran leadership and focus were critical in our success, and his court vision is as good as I've ever seen. He is a joy to coach and when he is on the court it is literally like having a coach on the floor. With Jason directing our offense and distributing the ball, we were able to utilize all of our offensive talents and that made us as a team very successful."

When the tournament was done, Kidd ranked first in the whole competition in assists-to-turnover ratio and Team USA’s gold medal qualified them for the 2008 summer games. His play brought a new energy to the team, allowing them to play their game, consistently make huge plays and revenge losses to teams that outpaced them in tournaments in the past. His performance at the FIBA Americas tournament was so impressive that he was named the USAB Male Athlete for 2007.

Jason Kidd has proven on every level that he has the smarts and experience to lead any team, and in 2008, he plans to build on his 44-0 record for Team USA. With his experience stretching back to the 1999 Olympic Qualifying Team and his successful leadership of six different USA teams, our hope for victory couldn't be in better hands.

More on Jason
Learn his Signature Moves »

More on Team USA
See all Team USA Bio’s »
Browse the Olympic Histories »
Meet the Competition »

This Is Our Team: Lisa Leslie

Hotnix — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:53:21 GMT

With three gold medals under her belt, Lisa Leslie faces her ultimate challenge: passing on her wisdom to a new Team USA.

No one on the U.S. Women’s Team has more experience than Lisa Leslie – or the gold medals to prove it. The future Hall of Famer, who’s been setting records and standards since high school, is now putting her experience to good use. Because for Team USA to bring home the gold this year, it’ll take more than just Lisa Leslie; it’ll take her leadership, guidance, and mentorship of younger players.

It’s not that Leslie is just the team’s star. She’s also the strategy. Women’s head coach Anne Donovan is relying on her to turn the young team into a cohesive unit, shaping much of the raw talent on the court.

“Lisa’s leadership, experience and her voice is something that we really need to play with again,” said Coach Donovan. “For our younger players in particular, to have that opportunity to be with her, interact with her and learn from her… it’s an exciting time for us.”

It would be hard to overstate Leslie’s importance to Team USA. The few times she’s been absent – the semis against Russia at the World Championships, the 2007 qualifying campaign – her team has fallen in defeat. It was only in 2007, at the FIBA Americas tournament, that her teammates forged ahead without her at the helm. “Lisa is our rock,” said a fellow team member. “She’s our foundation.”

After over ten years of professional league play, Lisa Leslie has had the time and dedication to work on all aspects of her game. The result is the most agile center in the history of the WNBA: she’s unguardable, impenetrable, and often unstoppable. But her strength, perhaps, still lies in her mental game.

“I feel a mixture of emotions,” Leslie says. “I feel young enough to play, but old enough to be a leader.”

And lead she will. Right to U.S. victory.

For over a decade now, Leslie has been one of the biggest forces in women’s basketball. And she knows that this summer is her chance to cap off her career as no one has done before: by winning a fourth Olympic gold medal.

“When I put on the red, white and blue,” she says, “It’s all about the gold.“

More on Team USA
See all Team USA Bio’s »
Check out the Olympic Histories »

This Is Our Team: Sue Bird

GHarty — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:52:20 GMT

In 2004, Sue Bird was just happy to be on the team. In 2008, she'll be
the starting point guard, shouldering big expectations and even bigger
dreams.

For Sue Bird, returning to Team USA in 2008 is like coming back to her
home team. Between college ball, the previous Games, and her overseas
experience, Sue knows her teammates well - and knows they've got the
chemistry to win.

For the past two years, after the end of her season in Seattle, Sue has
headed over to play in the Russian league. On her team abroad, she's
played with Beijing-bound Diana Taurasi and Tina Thompson, cooking up
the skills necessary to dominate the Summer Games. And Sue's
relationship with Taurasi even pre-dates their professional play; the
two of them have been bringing home championships since they were
teammates at UCONN.

"For us, the good thing about USA Basketball is because we've had so
many training camps over the years, we all know each other," says Bird.
"We've all played either with each other or know each other from
playing against each other in the WNBA. We have all played together
before and it won't take us long to get back into it."

That team chemistry was evident the first time Sue Bird joined Team
USA. Playing in the Athens Summer Games in 2004, the U.S. Women's Team
didn't lose a single game on their way to winning the gold. And the
team that helped achieve the ultimate victory - players like Lisa
Leslie, Diana Taurasi, Katie Smith and Tina Thompson - will be joining
Sue again this year in Beijing, ready to do it all over again.

But things have changed since 2004. This time around, the U.S. doesn't
come into the tournament with the same air of invincibility it had in
Athens. Back in 2006, Russia beat down the U.S. Women's Team on their
way to winning the World Championships, and Team USA finds itself
fighting for redemption this year in Beijing.

"I'm really looking forward to not only that challenge but looking back
at the World Championship our loss has stuck with everyone," admits
Bird. "I think we have a lot to prove and I'm glad I can be a part of
that and play a bigger role."

And in 2008, she'll definitely have a bigger role to play. She might've
been the youngest team member back in Athens, but this time around,
she'll be coming to the team as the starting point guard, with a lot
more expected of her.

But as one of only six women ever to win a gold medal, an NCAA
championship, and a WNBA Championship, Sue has proven she's a natural
winner. And this year, she'll get a chance to prove that again - with
her old teammates by her side.

More on Sue
Read Sue’s blog »

More on Team USA
See all Team USA Bio’s »
Check out the Olympic Histories »

This Is Our Team: Diana Taurasi

Hotnix — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:51:26 GMT

She’s been under the gun from the start – and is bringing new fire to the game.

Her professional career may only be a few years old, but Diana Taurasi has proven she was made for the hardwood. In just one year, she went from college ball to the WNBA – the number one draft pick – to the U.S. national team, where she was the youngest player on the squad. From her debut league game, where she scored an astounding 26 points, her passion for the game has lead her to victory – and hasn’t slowed down since.

Her amazing professional career began back in 2004, fresh off one of the most accomplished college careers in history. Less than 48 hours after winning her third national title for UCONN, Taurasi was asked to be a part of the U.S. Women’s National Team. Without more than one practice, she proved to the world that she was the league’s new up-and-comer; thirteen points, four rebounds, four assists, and two blocked shots later, USA walked away with a victory.

The team would face off with Lauren Jackson and Australia in the finals that summer, where Taurasi, despite her age and experience, would be instrumental in bringing home the gold.

After achieving victory that year in Athens, she went on to be named the Rookie of the Year with Phoenix, and in 2006, was named the USAB’s Female Athlete of the Year. Wherever she’s gone, whichever team she’s played with, she’s brought that same blaze of passion to the court. Despite being fresh to the league, she’s already racked up a career’s worth of awards and records.

This year, she’ll be bringing her natural instincts to a new national team, acting as a mentor to newbies like Seimone Augustus and Phoenix teammate Cappie Poindexter. Taurasi knows it’ll be up to her and fellow UCONN alum Sue Bird to help the younger players handle the pressure of playing in front of the world – something Taurasi knows all too well.

"I'm not afraid of anyone,” she says. “I'm not shy about anything. Not even my big nose.”

More on Team USA
See all Team USA Bio’s »
Check out the Olympic Histories »

This Is Our Game: Commitment

Hotnix — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:50:05 GMT

This is our story. The story of us as a country, played on a court and erected on a podium. The journey of us told on the hallowed courts of the 1920’s New York and Boston, the 1930’s Chicago and Detroit. The tale of our pride echoed from the past, lifted off concrete, written on hardwood, and inscribed on the floors around the world. The travels of our dreams follow us: from Barcelona to London, Atlanta to Sydney. The journey of Team USA means more to us, because it’s the game America created, and it’s America’s job to show the world how we play it.

This is our game.

Their sweat is our sweat, their dreams are our dreams. Their pain is felt in the hearts of fans across this nation, the millions who support the passion, the pride, and the ferocity with which we will stake our claim.

This is our legacy.

We give remembrance to the teams of our past. We honor those who paved the way before us. Their stories lie at our feet. Because in the hearts of those players, our desires were born. Our dreams came from those who wore the uniform first. This is the legacy that will never end, given to us so that we can take it to a new level: a level unseen.

Together, we triumph.

This is all a part of the journey we take together. We recognize the difficulty of the road behind us and the opportunity of the journey in front of us. We will go higher. Above the rest. Beyond what anyone says is possible. Because the greatest moments in history still lie in our future.

As a planet, we offer the game as a gift for the world to enjoy.

But together, we will make sure the world knows this one vital, important fact about the United States of America: No one balls like we do.

More on Team USA
Meet the men on this year's Team USA »
Meet the women on this year's Team USA »

This Is Our Game: Undefeated

GHarty — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:49:21 GMT

This is Our Game explores the rich tradition of the U.S. National Teams, uncovering the victories, defeats, and rivalries of the last seven decades. In Part One of the series, as the game spreads to the world, the first and greatest American basketball dynasty is born.

1936-1968.

It all started with a peach basket nailed to a wall, back in 1891, by a high school PE teacher named James Naismith. He’d invented the game as a way to keep his students warm in winter, but it wasn’t long before it’s popularity spread, eventually growing into an American pastime and a global phenomenon.

Basket Ball, a name chosen by one of his students, was soon being played in schoolyards and colleges across the country. By the early 1900’s, official rules were established, the NCAA was formed, and the game became a regular part of life for many Americans. But it wasn’t until World War I, when young soldiers were sent abroad, that basketball was spread to the world.

Before long, the game that started in a high school gym was a major global sport. And so it was decided, almost forty years after that gym class in Springfield, MA, that basketball was to become an official event at the 1936 Games.

From the tip-off, the United States was unstoppable. The team, though made up of young amateurs, won its first five games without much effort. And it was there in Berlin, as Naismith looked on, that one of the world’s longest-running dynasties was born.

From that point on, the U.S men’s team became known for fostering some of the great amateur players in history. The roster for the 1960 games in Rome, for instance, listed future greats like Oscar Robertson, Jerry West, and Jerry Lucas. Lucas, only 20 years old at the time, served as the team’s anchor, making an amazing 84% of his shots over nine historic games.

From the years 1936 to 1968, The American team was unmatched in speed, skill, and strategy. From London to Helsinki to Tokyo, the Men’s Basketball Team dominated the court time and again. And with a tally of 63-0, it would take the onset of the Cold War – and the U.S.’s biggest political enemy – to bring the team’s streak to an end.

NEXT: The epic rivalry that brought an end to U.S. dominance >>

More on Team USA
Meet the men on this year's Team USA »
Meet the women on this year's Team USA »

The Competition: Manu Ginobili

GHarty — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:49:06 GMT

In 2004, Manu Ginobili became an icon by leading Argentina to their first basketball gold medal. Can he do it again four years later?

It all goes back to Bahia Blanca, Argentina. That’s where Emanuel Ginobili first learned the game, starting on his quest to become his country’s greatest basketball player of all time.

Basketball was all around Manu from an early age. His father was a coach, and his brothers played in the pros. With such tough competition under one roof, Manu developed quickly and earned a spot with his local ball club. After a few years there, he headed to Europe to improve his game against tougher international competition.

In Italy, he quickly proved himself one of the top players in Europe. His deadly outside shot, combined with a fearless first step, made him almost impossible to guard. He drove the lane with abandon and backed down from no one.

San Antonio was so impressed by what they saw that they drafted him in 1999. But he had other things to do first; only after three more seasons in Europe, the 2001 Italian Championship, two Italian Cups, three All-Star appearances and the Italian and Euroleague MVP awards, did he finally join the Spurs.

Once in San Antonio, he quickly developed a reputation in the NBA as a clutch player. In the 2003 Playoffs, his work off the bench helped the Spurs win the championship. And the 2004-05 season gave him another opportunity to catch fire, where he earned an All-Star slot and went on to average 20.8 points and 5.8 rebounds per game in the postseason. After two more NBA championships in 2005 and 2007, he was awarded the 6th Man of the Year title in 2008.

But of all his awards and titles, none rallied his people as much as the gold medal he won in Athens. It was during the 2004 Summer Games that he cemented his place in the hearts of Argentineans. On opening day of the Games, Manu lit up the tournament by hitting a buzzer beater to defeat Serbia, and the crowd went wild.

But it wasn’t until Argentina faced Team USA in the semifinals that he truly shone, where the world saw him produce one of his finest games on any stage. Behind by 29 points, Argentina came back to defeat the Americans 89-81 in an epic encounter, giving Team USA their third loss in history. Days later, Manu and his team defeated Italy, giving them the gold. The tournament was not only Argentina’s finest achievement, it was Manu’s as well; he scored over 19 points a game and walked away with the MVP award.

Almost overnight, Manu had become a national hero, eager to return to the place it all began.

"I want to cry and at the same time I want to laugh. I can't wait to go back to Argentina and see the joy on the face of our people," said Ginobili.

The 2008 Summer Games in Beijing will be a tougher challenge for Argentina. No longer the underdog, every strong team is out to dethrone the champs – Team USA especially. In Beijing, Manu will face some of his greatest American rivals, all out for blood. But he and his fellow Argentineans are ready to fight, to prove that their win was no fluke, and to do it all again in 2008.

More on Team USA
See all Competition Bio’s »
Check out the Olympic Histories »

The Competition: Pau Gasol

GHarty — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:48:11 GMT

In 2006, behind the strength of Pau Gasol, Spain shook up the world. Can he do it again in ’08?

Since joining the international basketball federation, Spain has been a dominant force in the European game. With sixteen appearances in the Eurobasket tournament and 8 medals, they’ve easily proven themselves against their European counterparts. But when faced with the rest of the world, Spain has often struggled to keep up.

After a string of defeats on the world stage, it became painfully clear that the team was in need of a strong leader. They needed someone to unite them both on and off the court. Someone who could give hope not only to the players themselves, but to a country in need of a savior.

And when that savior showed up, he came in the form of Pau Gasol.

At the 2004 Games, Pau was introduced to the world in a big way. The leader of a new generation of Spanish superstars, his game was revolutionary. The 7-footer moved like a small forward, played with either hand and could knock down open jumpers. And he’d already racked up medals for his country in the Junior European, Junior World, European and FIBA World championships. With his record of success, Spain was all but guaranteed a medal.

But that year, despite his country’s high hopes, the team was faced with too many obstacles. The Spaniards finished a distant 7th out of 12 teams in the tournament.

It wasn’t until the 2006 FIBA World Championships that Spain – and Pau Gasol – were given a second chance.

Right from the start of the tournament, Pau set the tone, averaging 21.3 points and 9.4 rebounds a game. Spain bulleted through the competition, and in the most memorable game of the series, they faced Argentina – the world champs – in the semifinals.

With a minute left in the game, Pau fractured a bone in his foot. It was a shock to the team, but they were able to recover quickly, holding on to win 75-74. Shortly after, despite losing their leader, Spain went on to beat European rival Greece to become the World Champions.

Pau was awarded the MVP trophy for the tournament.

"My teammates today played an amazing game," Pau said. "They played with their hearts and together as a unit. It's no fun to watch. I thought I would suffer some more, but I am so happy to see the way they responded without me being there."

This summer, as Spain gears up to defend its title, all hope is resting on Pau’s shoulders. But if his first season with Los Angeles is anything to judge by, he’s never been more ready.

After being traded mid-season to L.A., Pau ignited the renaissance that took a controversial L.A. team from the middle of the pack to the top. He was the perfect fit for a roster that needed a quality, consistent low-post player to step into the number two scoring position. When he wasn’t getting clutch rebounds and easy buckets down low, he was capitalizing on an amazing chemistry with Kobe that resulted in huge points.

Without Pau, the Lakers may never have made the Finals.

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This Is Our Team: Coach K

Hotnix — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:47:10 GMT

The best coach in the game has been tasked with architecting the greatest comeback in history. But it will take more than just great players to get the gold.

It was a humbling moment. Coach Mike Krzyzewski, the man many people would argue is the greatest coach in the game, a man armed with so many of the world’s greatest players, watched as Spain took the winner stand at the 2006 World Championships. Lightning struck twice for Team USA and they fell once again on the national stage. When he took over as head coach of the national team in 2005, it wasn’t supposed to be like this.

Coach K has a record of success that is unrivaled by any other coach in college basketball history. In addition to his 800 wins, three national titles and countless awards at the college level, he was the head coach of the 1990 US national team that took bronze in the world championship and an assistant coach on the original Dream Team. He has seen the U.S. at its absolute best and knew what it would take to get back there.

Though his first time out with the team resulted in a loss he looked at the 2006 World Championships as the starting point, not the finish, of his work with USA Basketball. When he was named Head Coach, Coach K had a three-year mission that would culminate at the 2008 Olympics: restore Team USA to its previous greatness. Not another Dream Team. An entirely new era of basketball.

"That's in the past, and that was beautiful," said Krzyzewski. "You want another one, you have to go out and create something special of your own. We are the U.S. national team. What we want to be called is not a 'Dream Team.' We want to be called a 'championship team.' The other one will not happen again."

The first step on the road back to the top was at the 2007 FIBA Americas tournament, the qualifying competition for the 2008 summer games. Coach K, a firm believer in the fundamental game, focused on the foundation, selection the best men for the job. This was the first tournament where Coach K had the opportunity to actively participate in the selection process. Previous years the team was a collection of the individual players in the NBA, not necessarily a hand-picked arsenal of the strongest players for the twelve spots.

"They have guys that have played together 10-12 years. The talent level has gotten so much closer that with that continuity they have the advantage" Coach K said of the competition.

With the inclusion of defensive specialist Tayshaun Prince and marksman Michael Redd, Coach K showed his dedication to assembling a well-balanced squad. And once the roster was created it would take dedication, sacrifice and teamwork to build the on-court chemistry needed to win. Superstars, like Kobe Bryant, were on the same page from day 1.

"He is everything I thought he would be and more. I have been excited and waiting for this opportunity for a long time. Playing for him now, you realize why he is such a great coach. He communicates extremely well with his players. He’s very intense and has a passion for what he does and he has a great sense of humor," said Kobe.

After spending their summer in Vegas in and intense team-building camp all their hard wok paid off during the FIBA Americas tournament, with the new and improved Team USA marching through all comers to the gold. Compiling an undefeated record they got their revenge over Puerto Rico, a team that delivered a crushing 19 point defeat in 2004, and the reigning world champs Argentina.

Coach K is now focused on getting prepared for this summer's training camp and then finalizing his roster by July 20th. If all goes according to his master plan, Coach K will be right back to where he was the last time he was at the Summer Games: watching his players wear gold around their necks.

"I want to make sure we finish this process off right and win the gold medal," Krzyzewski said.

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This Is Our Team: Deron Williams

GHarty — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:45:21 GMT

As Jason Kidd makes his heroic return as floor general, the future of Team USA’s point guard position belongs to Deron Williams.

Jason Kidd has long been the standard for leadership on the court, considered one of the greatest point guards in history. And under his leadership Team USA has never failed. From his first appearance as a pro in 2000 to his amazing display at the FIBA Americas tournament in 2007, he has racked up an undefeated record. But last summer he found great support in a young point guard from Utah, who is, perhaps the only player that could ever fill his shoes and carry the torch.

Deron Williams is widely considered to be one of the most promising point guards to hit the league in years. In his three years in college he led his team in scoring, led them to a near undefeated season his junior year, and took them to the national championships in 2005. In his first three years in the pros he has helped return Utah to the top of the Western Conference. And it was his physical presence and maturity that turned heads in the Team USA training camp last summer in Vegas. People were amazed that such a young player could play with such poise and power.

"Deron just came along so fast," Chris Bosh said about Williams' development. "He can shoot the ball well, he's big, he's physical, he's quick, he can run an offense and he's unselfish."

Praise like that from a legend like Kidd and from the fans and critics across the country could have easily gone to hiss head, but his determination to be the best in the game has kept him humble, focused and hard working. Playing behind Kidd, Williams got to study and learn from one of the best point guards of all time.

“Jason's a guy that I grew up trying to emulate, trying to be like as a kid," said Williams. "Anything he sees that I'm doing wrong or I could do differently. Whether it's something simple as, you know, I made a chest pass today when I should have made a bounce pass. He came over and told me 'Drop it down low. There's not as many hands to get through.' He's just helping me out."

Deron took the Team USA experience in 2007 and used it to make his game even stronger on the professional level. In the 2007-2008 season, Williams set career highs in both scoring (18.8 ppg) and assists (10.5 apg), while leading Utah to a 54–28 record in the regular season and finishing third in the league in assists. His superb individual play and his ability to make his teammates better helped take Utah deep into the playoffs for the second year in a row, but he still sees room for improvement.

"You can always learn," Williams said. "You can always improve. You can always get better. You just gotta stay hungry to do that. I think there's a lot of maturing I can do as far as being a leader on my team."

After this season's performance and the upcoming USAB training camp the world will be waiting to see what Deron has in store.

"He has all the tools to be one of the top point guards," Kidd said, "if not the top point guard, when it's all said and done."

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This Is Our Team: Seimone Augustus

GHarty — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 20:43:39 GMT

After five years and five medals, Seimone Augustus is ready to make her debut with the Senior National Team.

Seimone Augustus is no stranger to wearing her country’s jersey. Since she was selected as the only high school player to the U20 National Team Trials, she’s gone on to collect three gold medals, a silver and a bronze with Team USA.

“USA Basketball is a different because you are surrounded by the most talented athletes who can contribute just as much as you can,” said Seimone. “You have to know where you fit in the system.”

And fit in she does. After high school, Seimone teamed up with fellow Team USA player Sylvia Fowles at LSU, leading the team to three consecutive national semis. Minnesota made her the #1 overall pick in the 2006 WNBA Draft, where she proceeded to lead the team in scoring and was named 2006 Rookie of the Year.

In her most recent experience for the red, white and blue, Seimone was part of the team that took first place at the 2007 FIBA Americas tournament, earning the U.S. their spot in the 2008 Summer Games. Without her determination and energy, the team may not have achieved all it has.

But for all her Team USA experience, Beijing will be Seimone’s first official chance with the Senior National Team. And to bring home another gold medal, she knows which role she’ll need to play: the team’s stopper on defense.

“Everyone knows what I can do on the offensive end, so defense is key to my role on this team and in order for me to become a complete player altogether,” she said.

Though she may lack the official experience of older players, Seimone isn’t too worried – she knows she can rely on the legendary veterans who will be fighting alongside her. Icons like Lisa Leslie and Tina Thompson will be there every step of the way, sharing their wisdom with her and the other young players. And as for Seimone, she knows she can provide the spark the team needs to pull ahead.

“I will do my best to feed off the veteran players and gain their knowledge and do whatever I can do to help the team,” said Seimone. “I think I understand what I need to do, whether I'm coming off of the bench or starting, just bring the energy and set the tempo from the tip.”

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