Cross-Over

I think that international players have better fundamentals and play better team basketball. Yes, this American team is more experienced and has practiced together, but I think that is overrated. Last year's team was hand picked and had more practice time than the 04 Olympic team, but still lost to Greece in the World Championships.

I think the lack of success in 04 and last year is due more to the international rules and the "1 loss and you're out" format in the medal rounds, as opposed to lack of cohesion. With a shortened three point line and shortened quarters, games are ultra competitive. Moving screens are legal in international play, which means less athletic players who are better shooters get enough time to release their shot. Again, to reiterate, when a team catches fire from a shortened three-point line in a shortened game, they can win that single game and knock out any team in the medal rounds. Greece was a shock to make it to the finals last year.

This isn't saying the American team isn't the favorite to win in 08, but let’s not let a watered down FIBA tournament where Argentina was missing three NBA players bring us back to 1992. The international game is competitive, and there are tons of great players outside of the U.S. For example, I would take Manu Ginobili over almost any other guard even in an NBA playoff scenario. He is fearless, highly skilled, and has an uncanny ability to finish over big men in the lane.