The "Redeem" Team

Lets not sugar coat it, Olympic mens basketball is the most important event to America.

While all our sisters grew up loving girls gymnastics, and everyone loves watching Michael Phelps dominate, and the 100m, "fastest man in the world" race is equally entertaining; American sports fans need America to win the mens Basketball gold.

The American Basketball Superiority mentality slowly grew over the years when our amateur, collegiate players dominated the international basketball scene, and then exploded when the original Dream Team destroyed every other country. Need I remind you the Dream Team's average margin of victory was over 43 points.

We are America, damnit. We invented this game and made the NBA is the premier league in the world for basketball. Although maybe a bit extreme, Olympic Basketball to America is like Hockey to Canada, only without an equal playing field

But, as I said above, American Sports fans need this gold medal. They need to reminded of how fun it is to see a team of All-Stars dominate the international competition. They need to have a reason to watch this team. And because they need to be reassured America is the best basketball country in the world. But most important of all, the American fans need to see the best American players represent this team.

So, after that lengthy introduction, here we are, a day away from playing our new found nemesis, Greece. I have a few observations.

1. It is good to see that NBA players are serious and excited about playing in the Olympics again. Kobe Bryant is on the team, Lebron is back on the team, and most of our best players are representing the best Basketball country in the world.

Clearly this is a result of the wake up call that was a bronze medal. Anything less than Gold is an utter disappointment and these days the improved international competition requires the best American players to represent this team. I really give Kobe a lot of credit here, because I believe he promised to be on this team, and likely lobbied other players to join the team.

2. The FIBA Rules could cause problems.

Some of the rules are very different. Differences in travelling and the lack of an "Above the Cylindar" rule are the most glaring. While these may seem minor, the players need to adjust. That is a bit scary.

3. However! Talent always wins.

Is anyone in doubt that Lebron James is the best player in the world? If, you are, just watch. America's talent is far and away the best in the games. Now, it really is just up to Coach K to put that talent in a position to dominate.

He has already done an excellent job. He has worked on improving the perimeter defense so the next Carlos Arroyo can't single handedly embarrass our perfect team. Although, I did question the starting of Jason Kidd over Chris Paul. However, I can understand because Paul has limited international competition experience. Just dont like J-Kidd shoot the three, and well be fine.

4. My Expectations? Gold medal. But Spain will give us a real fight.

The players know the needs and expectations of the American supporters, and they wont disappoint.