Dwight Howard trade cements death to small markets

By Kshell

When the Los Angeles Lakers traded for Dwight Howard it just continued a long going trend that has been happening in the NBA for a while. That trend being that small market teams simply can't compete in the NBA. Howard isn't the first Super Star to be dealt from a small market to a major market and he isn't going to be the last. In the NBA the rich continue to get richer while most of the league sits back and enjoys being not a factor. The Lakers roster now features six former all-stars in Kobe Bryant, Dwight Howard, Pau Gasol, Ron Artest and Antawn Jamison. Of those six all-stars they drafted none of them and only Bryant has played his whole career there. The Lakers aren't the only team doing that as they are just trying to keep up with their rivals the Miami Heat.

When Lebron James announced he was "taking his talents to South Beach" along with Chris Bosh the Miami Heat formed a "super team" who won a championship this past season. The Heat's roster has five former all-stars in Dwyane Wade, Lebron James, Chris Bosh, Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis. Of those five all-stars only Wade was drafted by the Heat. James left a small market in Cleveland while Bosh left Toronto for Miami as well. Players want to play in big markets, great weather and win a title. Since teams in big markets and with great weather have players flock to them they are naturally able to win a title as most great players go play for them. The two overwhelming favorites in the NBA are the Lakers and Heat who feature 11 former all-stars and only one was drafted by that team. This is a scary trend for the NBA which back in the 1970's saw eight different teams win an NBA championship. Since 1980 to the present day only nine teams have won an NBA championship. Los Angeles Lakers(10 titles), Chicago Bulls( 6), Boston Celtics(4), San Antonio Spurs(4), Detroit Pistons(3), Houston Rockets(2), Miami Heat(2), Philadelphia 76ers(1) and Dallas Mavericks(1). There is no parity in the NBA that is for sure.

For a small market team to win the NBA title you need to get really lucky. First you need to win the lottery to draft a franchise changing player like a Tim Duncan, Kevin Durant, Lebron James, Dwight Howard, etc. Second you need that player to want to stay with your team which so far only Tim Duncan has done with the Spurs. Duncan led the Spurs to four NBA championships as he was the #1 pick in the 1997 NBA Draft. Duncan wasn't joining a terrible team either as they had super star David Robinson who had basically missed the previous season so they immediately became a success. The only other way to succeed is to suck bad enough so you are in the NBA lottery and strike gold. Also helps having an owner who is best friends with the commish so he can give you Kevin Durant landing the #2 pick in a year with Kevin Durant, then sucking again to draft Russell Westbrook with the #4 pick then sucking again to draft James Harden with the #3 pick which is what Oklahoma City did. Under this current format there is a good chance Oklahoma City won't be able to keep all three guys there. NBA history shows one of them will bolt and still no players will continue to go there. Nothing against Oklahoma City or any other small market but NBA players don't like small markets. They want to play in Los Angeles, New York or Miami. That is where the endorsements are, that is where the beautiful women are, that is where a lifestyle outside of basketball is. Tim Duncan stayed so the Spurs won four titles, remember when Kevin Durant is a free agent he'll be 26 years old so he'll be in the exact same spot in his career which Lebron James was in. 20 years from now nobody is going to remember that Lebron James played for Cleveland.

Let's go back to the 2008 "Redeem Team" roster shall we? You had Chris Paul(New Orleans), Kobe Bryant(Los Angeles), Carmelo Anthony(Denver), Lebron James(Cleveland), Dwight Howard(Orlando), Deron Williams(Utah), Chris Bosh(Toronto), Jason Kidd(Dallas), Michael Redd(Milwaukee), Dwyane Wade(Miami), Tayshaun Prince(Detroit) and Carlos Boozer(Utah). Of those 12 guys you see 10 guys not playing for Miami, Los Angeles, and New York. As of right now nine of those guys are playing in Los Angeles(Bryant, Howard, Paul), New York(Anthony, Kidd, and Williams) and Miami(James, Wade and Bosh). Boozer left for a big market as well in Chicago while Redd and Prince careers fell off so nobody really wants them. So that is 83% of the team is now playing in big markets which screams small market teams just don't matter in the NBA.

As a northwest fan this sucks I must say. It hurts knowing that when we do get a team and they are the Sonics again we are playing against a stacked deck. On this current 2012 team only Kobe Bryant was the only player not picked in the top 10. So the only chance a small market has is to suck for multiple years in a row like Oklahoma City while also being in a draft with a game changing player like a Tim Duncan or Kevin Durant. Meanwhile Los Angeles, Miami and to a lesser degree New York will continue to clean up on free agents. David Stern in the 1980's decided to feature the players with Magic Johnson and Larry Bird instead of the teams. Due to that the players have all the power in this league which means the teams don't. Lebron James set the stage also for if players are willing to take less money to join forces to create a super team. No the Howard trade didn't change anything at all just cemented the fact that the big market teams in this league are going to continue to get better. While the small market teams are going to have to continue to fight a stacked deck which is made to prevent them from winning championships. That is the NBA that David Stern built which sucks for all small market teams. Basically as long as David Stern is commish small markets teams don't stand a chance.

Team USA wins the Gold 107-100 over Spain!

By Kshell

Team USA wins the Gold Medal for the second straight Olympics over Spain 107-100! Just like in 2008 Spain gave the United States all they could handle but the U.S. proved down the stretch they were mentally tough. The United States who only had a one point lead entering the fourth quarter saw several of the big time guys in Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, Chris Paul and Lebron James come through in the clutch. Durant set a record for most points scored in a championship game with 30 points as he became the single tournament record holder for points scored with 156 points. Kobe Bryant and coach Mike Krzyzewski ended their Olympic career with a gold medal as they both came into this program when Team USA had hit rock bottom. Then there is Lebron James who capped his magical season joining only Michael Jordan as the only player to ever win the regular season MVP, NBA Finals MVP and Gold Medal in the same season.

In the first quarter team USA came out shooting red hot as did Spain guard Juan-Carlos Navarro. The United States led 35-27 in the first quarter led by Kevin Durant scored 12 points on three for seven shooting with two three pointers while making four of five free throws. Carmelo Anthony continued his great Olympics with eight points on three for five shooting making both three point attempts. Lebron James didn't score but had four rebounds and three assists. While Navarro kept Spain in it with 14 points on four for six shooting making all three three point attempts. Los Angeles Lakers all-star power forward Pau Gasol scored six points, grabbed five rebounds with five assists. The United States made 7-10(70.0%) from three point range as it looked early on that the U.S. would put Spain away.

Spain opened the second quarter on a 9-0 run then eventually 14-2 run to take a 39-37 lead over the United States. In the second quarter Spain would outscore the United States 31-24 as the U.S went cold from the outside making just one for eight from down town. The second quarter saw a combined 25 free throws as the officials were calling a tight game. At halftime the United States led 59-58. Durant was their leading scorer scoring 17 points on just 4-12 shooting while two for eight from three pointers but seven for eight on free throws. James scored eight points on three for five shooting with six rebounds and three assists. Kobe Bryant scored six points hitting two three pointers. Anthony scored eight points on two three pointers. Deron Williams scored six points on two three pointers while Kevin Love scored nine points making five for six free throws with six rebounds. For Spain they led by Navarro scoring 19 points on 6-11 shooting making four three pointers. Pau Gasol scored eight points on three for eight shooting with six rebounds and five assists. Serge Ibaka scored five points all at the free throw line with five rebounds.

In the third quarter both teams traded leads before Kevin Durant hit a three pointer to give USA an 83-80 lead before leading 83-82 going into the fourth quarter. Both teams scored 24 points in the quarter. Durant scored 10 points in the third while Bryant scored seven points in the third quarter for team USA. For Spain who was without Marc Gasol the entire period as he picked up four fouls in the first half relied on his brother Pau and Serge Ibaka. Ibaka scored six of his 11 points in the third once again living at the free throw line making seven for nine. Pau Gasol dominated the third though as Spain kept pace despite not hitting a three pointer. Pau scored 15 points in the quarter giving him 23 points, six rebounds and seven assists after the third quarter. For team USA who scored 24 points had 21 of them come from James, Bryant and Durant as the rest of the team went cold. The United Stated they had a fight on their hands as their usual big third quarter over their opponents when they put teams away didn't happen. Spain due to Pau Gasol went toe to toe with the United States as the game remained a one point lead for the United States with only one quarter to go to see who wins the Gold Medal.

The fourth quarter began with the struggling Chris Paul going on a personal 5-0 run to give USA a 90-84 lead. Then with 7:11 left in the 4th quarter James picked up his fourth foul and had to go to the bench. After a Spain bucket, Durant would hit a three pointer to extend USA's lead to 93-86. Bryant would cap the 12-4 run with two free throws as USA led 95-86. After Navarro hit a three pointer and back to back turnovers by Bryant and Anthony the game was down to 97-91 when James entered the game with under three minutes to play. With 2:45 left in the game James blew by everyone for the dunk to extend USA's lead to 99-91, then with the shot clock winding down to cap his terrific season James knocked down the dagger three pointer to give USA a 102-93 lead. After Chris Paul made a terrific layup giving USA a 104-93 lead coach K started to celebrate as he knew his team was winning the gold medal.

For the United States this team was probably the best team assembled since the 1992 Dream Team. The United States shot 34-70(48.6%) from the field, 15-37(40.5%) from three point range and 24-31(77.4%) from the free throw line. Kevin Durant led team USA with 30 points on 8-18 shooting including 5-13 from three point range and 9-10 on free throws. He also added nine rebounds in the win. Lebron James scored 19 points on 8-13 shooting including a three pointer with seven rebounds and four assists. Kobe Bryant scored 17 points on 5-10 shooting including three for seven from three point range while making four of five free throws. Chris Paul scored 11 points on four for nine shooting with two three pointers and three steals. Kevin Love scored nine points on two for three shooting and made five of six free throws. He also provided great defense in the fourth quarter and had nine rebounds. Carmelo Anthony scored eight points on three for nine shooting including two for six from three pointers with five rebounds and three assists. Deron Williams scored six points hitting both three point field goals he attempted. The United States held off a tough Spain team for the gold medal for the second straight Olympics.

As for Spain they were led by the Gasol brothers. Pau Gasol finished with 24 points on 9-17 shooting making six of eight free throws. He also grabbed eight rebounds and had seven assists. His brother Marc Gasol scored 17 points on 8-10 shooting in only 17 minutes as he fought foul trouble picking up his fourth foul in the second quarter. Juan-Carlos Navarro scored 21 points on 7-17 shooting including four for nine from three point range. Former Trail Blazer Rudy Fernandez scored 14 points on three for seven shooting with a three pointer and made seven for eight free throws. He also provided six rebounds. Serge Ibaka who now lost the NBA Finals then the Gold Medal game much like Pau Gasol did in 2008(Pau would win the next two NBA titles though) scored 12 points on two for five shooting but made 8-10 from the free throw line while adding nine rebounds. Spain's early shooting and their front court kept them in the game until the end. Ultimately they didn't have an answer for all that firepower that the United States has.

In 2004 the United States had reached rock bottom as they finished 3rd in the Olympics. It wasn't only the finish that was embarrassing but the lack of pride that comes with it when playing for your country was evident. This team won the gold back in 2008 and during this tournament challenged the 1992 Dream Team for best team ever assembled. The United States team with so many great players seem to have no conflicts despite being rivals. Lebron James, Kobe Bryant and Kevin Durant are the three faces of the league and will be fighting with each other to win championships in the next couple of seasons yet they played so well together. The United States often blew out their opponent and the two times they were challenged there was no panic. Bryant and Durant stepped aside and let James carry them home to the gold. That's what made this gold so special everyone on the roster for the most part knew their role and they perfected their role. This might be the last time NBA players play in the Olympics and if that is the case what a way for this group to go out. The United States for the second straight Olympics is the Gold Medal winner! For that I'm proud to be an American.

Observations:

- Kevin Durant established himself as one of the greatest scorers in basketball history with these Olympics. Even today when he was struggling he still scored 30 points and hit five three pointers. Durant score more points than any U.S. player in Olympics history scoring 156 points beating former Sonics great Spencer Haywood's record of 145 set in 1968. Durant also set the single tournament record for 34 three pointers.

In the Olympics Durant averaged 19.5 PPG and 5.8 RPG. He shot 48.5% from the field while making 34-65(52.3%) from three point range making 4.3 three pointers a game. He also made 24-27(88.9%) of his free throws. Durant who has won the last three scoring titles showed why he is a terrific shooter. Today he struggled and still shot 8-18(44.4%) from the field and made 9-10 of his free throws. He still made five three pointers. Durant who is the second best player in the NBA showed the entire world that when it's all said and done he will go down as the greatest scorer this game has ever seen.

- What a year for Chris Paul. Paul who was originally traded to the Los Angeles Lakers had the trade vetoed only to be traded to the Los Angeles Clippers instead. Paul finished the year 3rd in the MVP race as the Clippers won only their second playoff series since moving to Los Angeles. Paul struggled though against Spain for most of the game then took over in the fourth quarter. He began the fourth quarter hitting a three pointer and went on a 5-0 run to give the United States a six point lead. After that run by Paul the game was never in doubt again. Then to end the game Paul ran down the clock then drove by the Spain defenders for a layup using all of the 24 second shot clock which clinched the victory for team USA. Paul finished with 11 points scoring eight of them in the fourth quarter. He hit two three pointers as he was a terrific shooter during these games.

For the Olympics Paul averaged 8.3 PPG, 5.1 APG and 2.5 steals per game. He shot 51.0% from the field and made 13-28(46.4%) of his three pointers good for 1.6 a game. Paul once again showed everyone why he is the best point guard in the league. Whenever this debate comes up I have never once back off my stance that it is Chris Paul. That is why when the game was on the line coach K had Paul running the point.

- I felt like with all the clutch scoring going on in the fourth quarter Kevin Love's defense is forgotten. Love did what defensive player of the year Tyson Chandler couldn't do which was slow down Pau Gasol. Gasol who was abusing the United States for the first three quarters finished with only one point in the fourth. Love finished the game scoring nine points while grabbing nine rebounds. Love throughout these Olympics showed he was the best big man on the roster.

Love during these Olympic games averaged 11.6 PPG and led the team with 7.6 RPG. He shot 63.0% from the field and made 8-22(36.4%) from three point range good for one full three pointer a game. Love is often forgotten about because he is stuck up in Minnesota. I think the whole nation now realizes how good Kevin Love is. If you aren't counting Lebron James as a power forward then clearly Kevin Love is the best power forward in the game. Love gave the United States a good big man who can rebound while also the ability to knock down the open shot. I think on a team full of stars years from Love's contributions to this team and in particular this win will be forgotten which is too bad. I don't think the United States wins the gold medal if not for Love stepping up the way he did during these games.

- The player who benefited the most from this games perception wise was Carmelo Anthony. Although Anthony only scored eight points and was held scoreless in the final three quarters his role in these games was huge. Anthony during these games averaged 16.3 PPG and 4.8 RPG in 17.8 minutes. He shot 53.5% from the field and made 23-46(50.0%) of his three pointers which was good for 2.88 three pointers a game. During these Olympics Anthony become the all-time three point shooter making 41 career three pointers. Anthony proved that he is still an elite player in this league and he can score with the best of them. After starting in 2008, he came off the bench during these games mainly due to Durant being a star now. Anthony constantly provided scoring off the bench and set a U.S. record with 37 points and 10 three pointers in only 14 minutes in the historic win over Nigeria. Anthony silenced a lot of his critics and hopefully this upcoming year he can lead the New York Knicks out of the first round.

- Kobe Bryant had a terrific week first with his Los Angeles Lakers acquiring Dwight Howard, then seeing teammate Pau Gasol not traded then perform well these Olympics. To capping the week off with winning the Gold Medal. After struggling to start these Olympics Bryant started to show he still has plenty of game. In the fourth quarter Bryant had a huge put back and really played within the team game. Bryant scored 17 points on 5-10 shooting hitting three three pointers. There was no ego time for Bryant either he had no problem delegating the scoring to Lebron James or Kevin Durant.

During these Olympics Bryant averaged 12.1 PPG while shooting 42.9% from the field. Where he did most of his damage was beyond the arc where he shot 17-39(43.6%) from three point range making 2.1 three pointers a game. Bryant announced this was his final game for Team USA. For Bryant who joined the team in 2007 he never lost a game while wearing the team USA jersey. In an era when so many superstars didn't want to play for team USA he was the first guy who was in his prime to make playing for team USA cool again. Bryant really won over my respect during these games as he proved he can play a team game. He didn't let his ego get in the way either he may have said he is the best player on the team but he had no problem letting James take control of this team. For Bryant if he never plays an NBA game again he'll be one of the top 10 greatest players in NBA history. With the addition of Howard, Bryant has a chance to be top five all-time when all said and done.

- The players who have won NBA regular season MVP, NBA Finals MVP and a gold medal in the same season are Michael Jordan and Lebron James. That is it folks that is the company James finds himself in. After a terrific 19 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists performance on 8-13 shooting James cemented his legacy. I would put James in the top 10 of all-time already and I have a feeling when he retires he'll be only behind Jordan. What a year James has had as he carried the Heat to the championship then carried team USA. In both close games it was James who carried the team down the stretch. James who was third on the team in scoring, second in rebounds and first in assists while playing center for a big chunk of minutes.

In these Olympics James averaged 13.3 PPG, 5.6 RPG and 5.6 APG. He shot an incredible 60.3% from the field while making 0.75 three pointers a game. He also had a 5.6 assist to turnover ratio. After the game James didn't want to talk about himself but instead how much this means to the United States. Like Anthony, James was on the 2004 team who took home the Bronze medal. James although he didn't play much experienced the pain of that tournament. In 2008 it was viewed as Kobe Bryant's team as he bailed out team USA in the fourth quarter vs Spain. While this year was the year of Lebron James and even his harshest critics have realized he is the best in the game. James grew up a lot this year which I wrote about after he had won his first NBA title . James right now is in his prime right now and there is nobody even close right now to challenging him for the best player in the game not even Kevin Durant. James during these games showed how versatile he can be in becoming the first American and only second Olympian to ever record a triple-double in a game. Like I wrote in that piece right now this is Lebron James league and he is finally mature enough to accept that responsibility.

- Despite not coaching a single player on this roster and being a career college coach every player on this team loves Coach K. When team USA was embarrassed in 2004 Jerry Colangelo knew the way team USA was built was broken. He hired coach K and they made this team full of all-stars into a team. The "redeem team" was made and most played during 2006 world games where they were upset to Greece to take third. In 2007 with the addition of Bryant the United States hasn't lost since. Coach K is 62-1 in international play as a coach and he was also an assistant on the 1992 Dream Team. He also won't be coaching team USA anymore.

He took over team USA when they were rock bottom and has now put them at their rightful spot at the top. The graduate of West Point and coaching legend at Duke University made America proud again. He did a great job of managing the ego's of this team and making everyone buy into the team aspect. I don't think that he got enough credit for that. Durant, Bryant and James are all alpha dogs and the best in the game yet they played so well together. In 2008 there was no problem either as he had a superstar Dwyane Wade come off the bench or these Olympics Anthony who started in 2006-08 come off the bench. Coach K truly is the straw that stirs the drink for team USA and replacing him is going to be a tough decision. One thing is for sure he may not have coach any of these guys in college but you couldn't tell one bit. Just shows how highly respected he is and how much this team enjoys basketball. This might not be the greatest team ever assembled but man was this the funnest team to watch since the 1992 team. Coach K took the Herb Brooks attitude of "I don't want the best players but I want the right players" which is what this team was all about thanks to coach K.

This was a terrific win for the United States seeing them win the Gold once again. A roster full of millionaires who have plenty of accomplishments seeing them so joyful over this Gold Medal was truly refreshing to see. See rivals James, Bryant and Durant play so well together on the court was nice to see. There was no ego's on this team and everyone appeared to have known their role. This is why I was so glued to watching these games and loved every minute of it. This is why despite being up only one point heading into the fourth quarter I didn't panic. Neither did these guys as nobody tried to carry the team themselves. It was a collective effort from Chris Paul, Lebron James, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant and Kevin Love. While Carmelo Anthony had contributed all Olympics as well as Deron Williams. The game ended with Anthony Davis grabbing the rebound as he became the youngest guy to ever win an Olympic Gold medal. As a freshman he was college basketball player of the year, won a national championship, was #1 pick overall in the NBA Drat and now has a gold medal. This experience alone will help make Davis a star in this league someday as he'll probably start at center for the 2016 version. This win was so special and I can't say enough for how I felt as a basketball fan watching these Olympics. This current group of players is why the NBA is so interesting today. It really is hard to hate basketball after watching these Olympics. I'm proud to be an American as the United States once again is the Gold Medal champs!

Team USA destroys Argentina 109-83; advances to Gold Medal Game

By Kshell

The United States once again for the third time in the past three weeks proved to be too much for Argentina. The Argentina team that defeated the United States back in 2004 lost twice in a span of four days to this current USA team. Team USA sent a message today that they have four guys capable of carrying them and all four took turns. In the first quarter it was Kobe Bryant dominating the game, in the second quarter Lebron James simply wouldn't allow Argentina to grab any momentum, in the third quarter Kevin Durant and James started to carry the team then in the fourth quarter Carmelo Anthony put on the finishing touches. The United States team after struggling with the three point shot in the first half shot 13-25(52.0%) from down town. In 2004 when the upset happened only one of the top 10 scorers was on the United States basketball team, while the top six scorers are on this current team. The Americans are now just one game away against Spain who they defeated for the Gold back in 2008 from repeating as Gold Medal champions.

The United States started the game off red hot led by Kobe Bryant as the U.S. took an 18-4 lead to start the game. Argentina immediately answered with a 13-1 run cutting the lead to 19-17 before the United States led 24-19 after the first quarter. Kobe Bryant scored 11 points drilling three three pointers while Luis Scola scored six for Argentina. In the second quarter the game went back and forth as the United States outscored Argentina 23-21 but Manu Ginobili hit a three pointer at the buzzer as the United States took a 47-40 lead at halftime. Lebron James scored nine points in the second quarter. For Argentina in the first half they shot 15-34(44.1%) from the field and 6-14(42.8%) from three point range. They were led by Scola who scored 10 points on 5-11 shooting. Carlos Delfino scored 13 points on four for nine shooting including three three pointers. While Ginobili scored eight points on three for seven shooting with two three pointers.

In the first half for the United States they shot great from the field making 20-38(52.6%) from the field but struggled from three point range making only 5-17(29.4%)  from the outside. They out-rebounded Argentina 23-12. At halftime they were led by Kobe Bryant who scored 13 points on five for eight shooting including three three pointers with three rebounds. Lebron James scored 11 points on five for six shooting with three rebounds and four assists. Kevin Love scored seven points on three for six shooting with four rebounds all four were offensive. Chris Paul scored three points making a three pointer but had four assists. The United States two big three point shooters Kevin Durant and Carmelo Anthony had made only one combined three pointer in the first half. In the second half though that would change as both finally woke up.

The lead cut down to 51-46 that is when Kevin Durant started to explode from down town. Then with the United States leading 56-46 after a missed three pointer Lebron James grabbed the rebound kicked it out to Carmelo Anthony who then passed to an open Durant for a three pointer. Later in the quarter Lebron James blew by everyone for a dunk and one giving the United States a 64-51 lead. In the third quarter the United States had outscored Argentina 27-17 to take a 74-57 lead heading into the fourth quarter. Durant scored 12 points in the quarter hitting four for six from three point range while James scored seven points with three rebounds and three assists. In the fourth quarter the United States blew the game open outscoring Argentina 35-26 led by Carmelo Anthony scoring 12 points on four three pointers as he finally caught fire. Anthony is now the career three point leader in U.S. Olympic history while Durant set the single tournament record for three pointers.

For the United States they finished the game shooting 43-81(53.0%) from the field and 18-42(42.8%) from three point range while winning the rebounding battle 46-29. The United States had five guys in double figures led by Kevin Durant who scored 19 points on 7-14 shooting including 5-10 from three point range. Lebron James scored 18 points on 8-12 shooting with seven rebounds and seven assists. Carmelo Anthony scored 18 points on 7-14 shoting including four for eight from three point range with six rebounds and three assists. Kobe Bryant scored all 13 points in the first half on 5-10 shooting with three three pointers. Chris Paul scored 10 points on three for four shooting including two three pointers and seven assists. Kevin Love provided a big spark in the first half finishing with nine points and nine rebounds including four offensive. Russell Westbrook who had to leave the game due to injury scored seven points on three for four shooting. Deron Williams scored six points hitting two three pointers with six assists. For the United States this was a total team effort as they are one game away from placing themselves up there with the 1992 Dream Team for the best ever. This team has so many weapons and during this game you had four different guys carry the team for a quarter. They blew out a good Argentina team by a combined 55 points during this week hitting 38 three pointers on them.

For Argentina it was an end of an era. They took 2nd in the 2002 World Games and then in 2004 upset the United States while taking home the gold medal. They were led by Manu Ginobili who scored 18 points on 7-15 shooting with three three pointers. Luis Scola scored 15 points on 7-15 shooting as well. Carlos Delfino scored 15 points on 5-12 shooting with three three pointers. Argentina was simply too old and more importantly not athletic enough to hang with the Americans. Due to his age and a possible rule change this was the last Olympics for the core players highlighted by those three I just mentioned. Ginobili and the rest of his team is why the United States decided no more just putting a team together and sending them over. Instead the United States has been building this team since 2006 where James, Anthony, Williams, and Paul have been playing since 2006. Kobe Bryant joined the team in 2007. Kevin Durant, Tyson Chandler, Kevin Love and Russell Westbrook joined the team in 2010. The United States copied Argentina and sometimes you need to get punched in the mouth to become excellent again. For that all the Americans should thank Argentina for what they did to the U.S. back in 2002 and 2004.

For the United States the dream is about to become a reality as they are about to etch their name in history. I think if the United States wins the gold medal game in a blowout this team will be revered much like the 1992 Dream Team was. The United States is beating their opponents by an average of 35.7 points per game with only one game being within 25 points which was the scare against Lithuania where ever since James and Durant started to log more minutes along with Bryant. The 2008 team was cruising as well but the gold medal game against Spain got uncomfortably close which is why this team and not the 2008 team has a chance to be up there with the 1992 Dream Team. The competition in the world is a lot better today than it was back in the 1990's and for this team to be destroying their opponents especially a good Argentina team by an average of 27.5 points in one week is something special. For this team the goal is within sight finally all they need to do is finish the deal.

Observations:

- Kobe Bryant came out looking like the old Kobe in the first quarter. He scored 11 points drilling three three pointers and made a great baseline move for the dunk which reminded everyone of his old self. There was no secret that Bryant was struggling during these games but he continued from where he left off against Australia which really set the tone for the game. Although he didn't score in the second half it didn't matter as the United States has so many weapons. What matter was the fact that Bryant for the second straight game showed he belongs on the court in crucial moments. During these Olympics now Bryant is averaging 11.4 PPG but only shooting 41.7% from the field. However he is making his three point shot making two full three's a game at 43.8% clip which is pretty impressive. As long as Bryant doesn't force his shots team USA will blow out Spain. I felt Bryant did a great job playing within the offense waiting for his open three point shots and drilling them.

- Kevin Durant struggled in the first half but erupted like he did last time these two teams played in the third quarter. He scored 12 of his 19 points in the third quarter just like four days ago he scored 17 of his 28 points in the third quarter. This game Durant made 5-10 from three point range as he set the single Olympic tournament record for 29 three pointers made. During these Olympics Durant is leading the team in scoring averaging 18.0 PPG and 5.3 RPG. He is shooting 49.4% from the field but making 4.1 three pointers per game at a ridiculous 55.8% clip. To have that much weight and to be shooting that well from three point range is ridiculous. The United States have Kobe Bryant and Lebron James on their team yet offensively the world probably fears Durant and Carmelo Anthony the most. The United States has never in their history had a team be this good from three point range. Durant has been automatic from three point range and as a Sonics fan it has been nice to finally get to root for Durant as he would be my favorite player of all-time had the team that was stolen from us stayed.

- Carmelo Anthony caught fire in the fourth quarter to score 18 points making four three points all in the fourth quarter. Anthony during his Olympic career has hit 37 three pointers which gives him the all-time lead although Durant only trails by eight. Anthony during these Olympics has been a terrific sixth man off the bench much like Dywane Wade was back in 2008. Anthony during these games is averaging 17.4 PPG in only 17.3 minutes per game. He is also averaging 4.7 RPG as he is shooting 55.8% from the field and has made 21 three pointers during these Olympics which is good for three a game at a 52.5% clip. The United States has two athletic wing players who are shooting above 50% from three point range who are making over three three pointers a game. Anthony is averaging 48.2 points per 48 minutes which nobody has done in the history of the NBA besides Wilt Chamberlain. Anthony without a doubt is playing the best ball of his career and is proving when surrounded with good players he can take over. His shooting has improved a lot over the years and he is just one of many players on this roster who is a nightmare match up for anyone trying to defend them.

- Whenever Argentina would cut the lead down in the second quarter Lebron James would take over with a bucket or two. Then in the third quarter to put the game away he scored seven points while dishing out three assists. For the game James finished with 18 points, 7 rebounds and 7 assists. For these Olympics James is averaging 12.4 PPG, 5.4 RPG and 5.9 APG. Even more incredible is the fact he is playing so efficient as he is shooting 60.0% from the field and has 41 assists to only seven turnovers which is a 5.9 assist to turnover ratio. James is filling up the stat sheet during these games especially in the elimination portion of the tournament. James with his excellent defense and all around play as the United States one game away from him completing the best season we've seen since Michael Jordan in 1992. James has a chance to win regular season MVP, NBA Finals MVP and win the Olympic Gold Medal. Only Jordan is the only player in the history of the game who can say that so it's fitting that James who is the closest to challenging Jordan's legacy as best ever will reach that point potentially. With the way James, Bryant, Durant and Anthony are all on the same page I don't see the gold medal game being close. The offense runs best when James is running the point forward so he can attack the rim or dish to an open Anthony, Bryant, Durant, Deron Williams or Chris Paul for an easy three pointer.

This team is on the verge of something special but will face an interesting challenge against Spain. Spain features both Gasol brothers plus Serge Ibaka(so yes if not for Howard Schultz we'd have four guys in the gold medal game) which is the best front court in the tournament. The United States is weak in the front court due to Tyson Chandler constantly being in foul trouble. On the other end though I don't see how Spain matches up with a United States team who is hitting 16 three pointers a game shooting at a 44.5% clip. The United States is outscoring their opponents by 24.9 points per game on just three pointers alone. Like Chris Paul said going into the tournament every game someone is going to be red hot you can't stop all of them. This team is very deep, they know their roles well, they can go on a huge run at any moment in the game quickly to put an opponent away. The United States in 2008 had redemption while this team is proving they are the kings of the world. They still have one more game against Spain but I feel like that is more of a championship celebration. This team has put in the hard work been together for a while which has been something special. I missed out on the 1992 Dream Team but I'm sure glad I haven't missed out on this 2012 edition of the Dream Team.

Lebron James records first triple-double in USA Olympic History as USA defeats Australia 119-86

By Kshell

Team USA advances to the semifinals to take on Argentina after defeating Australia 119-86 led by Lebron James and Kobe Bryant. Lebron James dominated the game despite only attempted seven field goals when he scored 11 points, grabbed 14 rebounds and dished out 12 assists becoming the first guy in USA Olympic play to record a triple-double(second overall done in 1976). As for Kobe Bryant after being held scoreless in the first half he erupted scoring 20 points including 12 in the fourth quarter as he hit six three pointers. The Australians had played the United States competitive most of the game but the United States once again was too much for their competition.

The United States got off to a good start outscoring Australia 28-21 in the first quarter led by Kevin Durant with six points on two three pointers. While Lebron James had two points, six rebounds and three assists. Former Portland Trail Blazer Patty Mills scored eight points. In the second quarter USA outscored Australia 28-21 again to lead 56-42 at halftime. For the United States they were led by James who scored seven points while grabbing 10 rebounds with six assists. Deron Williams led all scorers with 13 points hitting two three pointers. Kevin Durant scored nine points hitting three three pointers. Carmelo Anthony scored eight points while Kevin Love added five points and five rebounds. For Australia Mills scored 12 points hitting two three pointers with four rebounds. Joe Ingles scored nine points and grabbed five rebounds as well. Australia was just simply hanging around with the United States hoping to prevent a blowout.

Australia began the second half on an 11-0 run to close the game to 56-53. After a Durant three pointer to put the lead back to 59-53 the Australians hung close. It was 64-58 when Kobe Bryant who was 4-22 in his previous 10 quarters finally woke up. Bryant hit back to back three pointers to stretch the lead to 70-58. After each team scored 28 points in the third quarter it was 84-70 heading into the 4th quarter. That is when the United States put the game away outscoring Australia 35-16 which was highlighted by Bryant. Bryant in the fourth quarter would hit his third three pointer of the game giving him 11 points. Then later in the fourth on three consecutive possessions Bryant drilled three pointers giving the United States a commanding lead. Bryant would finish the game with 20 points and six three pointers as the United States just let loose after those three pointers. James had a great behind the back pass for an easy dunk while James Harden had a great alley-oop dunk. The Americans put this game away as they advance to the semi-finals against Argentina who defeated the United States in the semi finals back in 2004.

The Australians finished the game shooting 32-71(45.0%) from the field, 9-22(40.9%) on three pointers. They were led by Patty Mills who scored 26 points on 9-20 shooting having made four three pointers. Joe Ingles scored 19 points, had eight rebounds and six assists. For the United States they made 39-86(45.3%) of their field goals, 19-46(41.3%) on three pointers and 22-32(68.8%) from the free throw line. They out-rebounded Australia 52-42 with 20 offensive rebounds. They were led by Lebron James who scored 11 points on three for seven shooting with a three pointer, a team leading 14 rebounds and a team leading 12 assists(first to do that since Michael Jordan in 1992). Kobe Bryant led team USA in scoring with 20 points on 6-14 shooting including 6-10 on three pointers. Deron Williams scored 18 points with three three pointers. Kevin Durant scored 14 points on just 5-13 shooting but still made four three pointers with five rebounds. Carmelo Anthony scored 17 points on 6-12 shooting with two three pointers. Kevin Love recorded a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds with eight being offensive. Chris Paul scored seven points hitting a three pointer with three assists and five steals. While James Harden added seven points late with a three pointer. Team USA turned it on down the stretch to put this game away.

The United States once again allowed their opponent to hang around but the after the game got scary 56-53 the U.S. outscored Australia 63-33 the rest of the way. The dominance by the Americans in such a short spurt shows what we all know that this team can score in a hurry. This team has too many weapons and are just two games away from winning the gold medal for the second straight Olympics after the embarrassment of 2004. Unlike years past the United States is best three point shooting team along with being the most athletic team. What they lack in size they make up for in being long athletic guys who can all drain three pointers. Team USA also has Lebron James and Kevin Durant playing their best ball right now which helps. If that second half is just the start of things to come for Kobe Bryant then these Olympics are officially over as the United States won't be challenged.

Observations:

- In the first half Kobe Bryant was held scoreless. In the previous two games Bryant had shot a combined 4-17 and was 0-5 in the first half. Bryant was getting killed by everyone on twitter during this time and even those who aren't big fans of his were even feeling for him. It was looking to be that awkward moment where we are witnessing with the entire world to see the fall of Kobe Bryant as being an elite basketball player.

Instead Bryant hit a couple of three pointers then in the fourth quarter with the United States leading pretty comfortably he put the dagger in with four three pointers. After being held scoreless Bryant led the United States in scoring with 20 points hitting six three pointers. The United States needs Kobe to be Kobe  in these next two games. Bryant has a lot of pride and this was the first game he actually played some minutes. Bryant showed the whole world, this country and more importantly his teammates that yes he can still have his Kobe Bryant moments. Hopefully this was the start of something special for Bryant and not just one last chapter in his career of being a premium player on team USA.

- Pretty incredible that in a game that featured Chris Paul, Deron Williams and Russell Westbrook the best point guard on the court was former Blazer Patty Mills. Mills carried Australia scoring 26 points on 9-20 shooting including making four for nine from three point range. He also had six rebounds and proved he can play with the best in the NBA. Mills who was picked up late in the year by the San Antonio Spurs is just looking for a chance as he dominated college ball at Saint Marry's. Mills was too quick for the United States guards and hitting his shots. When Australia had the game down to 56-53 it was because of Mills. Even though Australia eventually lost by 33 points for Mills this had to be a moral victory. He proved he can play with the big boys in this league which will give him a role in this league. He is also on the perfect team who has a habit of turning cast offs into good solid role players. Once again it appears Portland made a mistake in judging talent while the Spurs will reap the benefits.

- Kevin Durant struggled some in this game only 14 points on 5-13 shooting. He did still make four for nine from three point range and did grab five rebounds. Durant is having a terrific Olympics as he is averaging 17.8 PPG making four three pointers a game. Durant provides great height and is such a great shooter. When Lebron James is playing at his best it's almost unfair when Durant, Carmelo Anthony and Kobe Bryant are making their shots as it becomes too easy for the United States to score. Durant also hit a big three pointer when the game was cut to 56-53.

For Durant who plays in a small market(should be in Seattle) this is his chance to show that he is the next generation of superstar talent. Durant will eventually try to be Lebron James biggest rival in the NBA Finals. He is a great scorer and in these games has been automatic from three point range.

- I said Durant could eventually try to be James biggest rival because right now there is nobody even close to challenging James for best player in the world. James showed why he is such a great player because he dominated a game despite taking only seven field goal attempts. James scored 11 points but showed how versatile he is with 14 rebounds and 12 assists. He had the third most rebounds for an American in an Olympic game while having tying the record for assists with 12. James is mostly playing center during these games yet is setting up his teammates averaging over five assists a game during these Olympics. James not seen since Magic Johnson can dominate a game without having to attempt double digit field goals. James recognized early on Australia was going to double him so he fed his teammates who hit 18 three pointers(James also hit a three pointer himself). James has shown he can be clutch and is the best all around player in the game. The gap between the best player and the second best player hasn't been this wide since Jordan in the 1990's. In a game where Bryant hit six three pointers it was James who won the headlines as he dominated this game from start to finish.

That is why this game was so special to watch you saw two all-time greats dominating the game in two different ways. For Bryant it was taking when he sensed that he was getting hot hitting four three pointers in the fourth quarter. For James it was recording the first triple-double in Olympic history. He dominated the game by dominating the boards and looking for open teammates to make three pointers. For fans of the game it had to have been fun watching these two guys performing at such a high level. As long as James is playing 30 minutes a game there is no way the United States is losing during this tournament. The United States has been tested but always respond with a big haymaker punch of a run which always put their opponent away. For the United States they just need two more victories to put their place in history which is on par with the 1992 Dream Team. There will always be a debate but for the first time there is actually a team worthy of a debate with that 1992 team. This team is something special and I've had a great time watching basketball played at such a high level during these Olympic games.

Durant explodes in 3rd quarter as Team USA trounces Argentina 126-97

By Kshell

For the second straight game the United States was in a battle with their opponent at halftime. With the United States only leading 60-59 at halftime against Argentina a team they struggled beating in an exhibition game two weeks ago it was looking like the U.S. was going to be upset. Then Kevin Durant scored 17 of his game high 28 points in the third quarter as the United States outscored Argentina 42-17 to put the game away. The United States ended pool play going 5-0 as they were the only team to go unbeaten in pool play. Now the tournament begins where it is single elimination. The United States had moments where they were tested in these five games but they also had moments of pure dominance. When the United States is making their three point shots nobody in the world can stay close with them. The U.S. just has too much fire power on their roster for other countries to keep up.

In the first half team USA led 34-32 after the first quarter only to be outscored 27-26 in the second quarter to take a 60-59 lead at halftime. After escaping the previous meeting and their previous game many expected team USA to come out in full force. This Argentina team is very talented with NBA players Manu Ginobili, Luis Scola, Carlos Delfino and Andres Nocioni leading the way. Ginobili in the first half was doing what he does in the NBA which is flop and get calls to go his way. Once again team USA was facing their toughest challenge this year in the first half as this was their smallest lead at halftime. Unlike the previous game against Lithuania the United States busted out with a big third quarter to blow the game wide open. The United States has proven they can produce big long stretches of greatness when they need to. What they need to stop doing though is coast which they had been doing for one and a half games.

In the third quarter the United States outscored Argentina 42-17 led by Kevin Durant scoring 17 points. The United States then coasted to a 126-97 taking care of business as they were bombing three pointers. The U.S. shot 45-88(51.1%) from the field, 20-39(51.2%) from three point range and 16-20(80.0%) from the free throw line. They dominated the rebounds out-rebounding Argentina 47-33 including 20 offensive.Also had 29 assists to only eight turnovers as well. The United States was led by Kevin Durant who scored 28 points on 9-12 shooting including 8-10 from three point range while grabbing four rebounds, dishing out four assists and recording three steals. Lebron James once again had another good game scoring 18 points on 7-12 shooting including a three pointer and making all three free throws. James also added three rebounds and five assists. Chris Paul scored 17 points on six for seven shooting including five for six on three pointers with seven assists. Andre Iguodola  scored 13 points on six for nine shooting including a three pointer while grabbing nine rebounds. Kevin Love also scored 13 points on five for seven shooting including a three pointer with nine rebounds. Kobe Bryant scored 11 points on 3-10 shooting  with a three pointer and made all four free throws. Team USA really picked it up in the second half in making 20 three pointers in the game which made it tough for Argentina to keep up.

For Argentina they hung with the Americans for a half but that was all. They would shoot 33-65(50.8%) from the field, 10-26(38.4%) and 21-28(75.0%) from the free throw line. They only had 16 turnovers which against the United States is pretty good. They were led by Manu Ginobili who scored 16 points on four for seven shooting including a three pointer while making all seven free throws. Ginobili would also have six assists and five rebounds. Carlos Delfino scored 13 points on 5-12 shooting including going two for seven on three pointers. Andres Nocioni finished with 12 points on 5-10 shooting with two three pointers. Luis Scola scored 11 points on four for eight shooting. Argentina just couldn't keep up with a much more focused United States team in the third quarter. When the United States is playing at their best nobody in the world can hang within 20 points of them.

The United States is 5-0 but has struggled in four of the five games in the first half. The key is the United States is so talented they can turn it on at any moment led by Lebron James, Kevin Durant, Chris Paul and Carmelo Anthony during these Olympics. When someone has an off night they have so many weapons who can pick up the slack. With running James at center that allows the United States to have five guys on the court who can all hit three pointers, score in the paint and the ability to create turnovers on defense. The United States wants to keep attacking pushing the score as nobody can keep up with the. They want games to be a track race as nobody can keep up. In the future I'm sure teams will try to stall the ball a little bit more and work the clock to slow the United States down. For now the United States showed they are still the best in the world as they won their 47th international game in a row.

Observations:

- Lebron James is still the best player in the world in these Olympics. He is showing everyone why he is so great because for the bulk of these Olympics he is playing center while also bringing the ball up the court. James finished with 18 points, five assists and three rebounds. He carried team USA down the stretch of the Lithuania game scoring 9 of his 20 points in the final four minutes. For most of group play the United States hasn't needed James to do much but he is still producing. In group play James is averaging 11.6 PPG, 3.4 RPG and 4.4 APG while shooting 25-41(61.0%) from the field. James stats took a hit in the big blowout against Nigeria when he didn't have to do much but as you can see he is filling up the stat sheet. He is also shooting extremely well in these Olympics and has already proven at any moment he can light up the scoreboard if this team needs him to do that.

- Chris Paul finally had a break out game. Paul finished with 17 on six for seven shooting including five for six on three point shots. He also had seven assists. For Paul who finished 3rd in the MVP race this past season he had struggled early on but has picked up the last couple of games which has been nice to see. Paul during these Olympics is averaging 7.6 PPG, 3.0 RPG and leading the team with 5.8 assists per game. He is shooting 15-29(51.7%) from the field and 8-17(47.1%) from three point range. With Paul playing well to go along with James, Anthony and Durant this team is dangerous. The United States just needs another super star to get his game going.

- Kobe Bryant has been struggling during these Olympics. It could be that he is 33 and having played in 16 NBA seasons which saw 15 make the NBA playoffs. In those 15 playoff appearances he advanced passed the first round in 13 of those, made eight western conference finals and seven NBA Finals. Meaning he is a ton of mileage on those legs. Bryant finished this game shooting 3-10 scoring only 11 points and last game was 1-7 shooting meaning he has been 4-17(23.5%) the last two games. He has also been getting burned on defense and with the exception of the first quarter against Nigeria hasn't looked like the Kobe Bryant we've all watched through the years.

During these Olympics Bryant is averaging 9.4 PPG, 1.4 RPG and only 0.8 APG. He is shooting 14-36(38.9%) from the field and 5-16(31.3%) on three point attempts. During this past year despite making all-NBA first-team Bryant only shot 43.0% from the field and shot 30.3% from three point range. Perhaps he no longer is that superstar that we view him as. Perhaps he only is a top 10 player instead of being discussed as the best player. Eventually every player loses the battle to age and I'm wondering if we are witnessing that battle right now in front of our eyes as Bryant doesn't appear to be playing like the player he was say the last Olympics when he was in his prime years.

- The man who was built to score Kevin Durant scored 17 of his 28 points in the third quarter hitting five three pointers to put this game away. Durant finished the game drilling 8-10 from three point range. Durant has been deadly these entire Olympic games especially with the three point shot and his all around game is evolving as well. What makes team USA so deadly is one game James can carry the team, another Anthony did and this game it was Durant who was bombing three pointers all over the place and with deadly accuracy.

During these Olympics Durant is averaging 18.6 PPG, 5.6 RPG and 3.8 APG showing his all around play. He is shooting 29-56(51.8%) from the field and a ridiculous 20-33(60.6%) from three point range. He has also made 15-17(88.2%) from the free throw line. Durant is making four three pointers a game while making 3/5's of his three point attempts. He is 6'10", quick and athletic while also being the best shooter in the entire world. Nobody in the NBA can guard him let alone international players who have never been known for their defense. With Durant playing in midseason form the United States might have a scare here or there but I don't see this team losing a game.

Now that pool play is over it is on the medal round where if you lose you are done as it is single elimination. No more screwing around for the United States and letting teams hang around. They must come out early and put these countries away so they don't even think about trying to put a scare into them. The United States is clicking on all cylinders with so many weapons and so many different ways to beat you. The NBA has evolved into an international style of play which is why this current USA team is built for this play. The United States who couldn't buy a three pointer back in 2004 are now the most deadly three point shooting team in the Olympics. The U.S. basically plays two guards and three forwards which all three forwards can also play guard. The United States has so many different lineups they can run with it is scary and now that it is single elimination look for coach K to settle more on a rotation which means more minutes for Durant, James, Bryant, Paul and Anthony which can only mean one thing for the world which is trouble. The United States blew out a good team in Argentina a team that they'll perhaps have to face for a third time in three weeks this Friday if both teams win their Wednesday game. For the U.S. they have proven they are battle tested and can beat you in so many different ways.

Lebron James leads team USA to close 99-94 win over Lithuania

By Kshell

The United States men's basketball team survived a scare against a hungry Lithuania team as the U.S. won 99-94. The United States was carried by Lebron James who scored nine of his 20 points in the final four minutes of the game to hold off the major upset. Two days after winning by 83 points against that same Nigeria team who defeated Lithuania many thought the United States would roll. Instead led by Toronto Raptors forward Linas Kleiza who scored a game high 25 points the Lithuanian national team actually led with 7:59 left in the game. Team USA was tested for the first time in this 2012 Olympics and because of NBA Finals MVP Lebron James they survived that scare to tell about it.

In the first half Team USA sprinted out to a 33-25 first quarter lead over Lithuania as many expected the United States to grow on that lead. Instead Lithuania fought back and outscored the United States 26-22 in the second quarter as the United States led at halftime 55-51. For the first time in these Olympic games the United States didn't lead by double digits at halftime. For the first time the United States was going to have a fight on their hands as Lithuania wasn't going to back down to the United States. For the United States their backs were against the wall as coach K was probably having a nightmare flashback when his number two seeded Duke Blue Devils lost in the first round to a 15th seed. This has the feel of an NCAA tournament game where the big bad favorite was just screwing around and the underdog wasn't going away.

Team USA outscored Lithuania 23-21 in the third quarter to lead 78-72 heading into the fourth quarter. Lithuania grabbed the lead from the United States with under eight minutes left in the game. That is when Lebron James took over. With four minutes left in the game he scored 9 of his 20 points to lead the United States to a 99-94 win over Lithuania. For James he finished with 20 points on 9-14 shooting with a three pointer and five rebounds. Carmelo Anthony also scored 20 points on 7-13 shooting hitting two three pointers. Kevin Durant scored 16 points on 5-12 shooting hitting four three pointers with four rebounds. Deron Williams scored 12 points on 4-12 shooting making two three pointers. Chris Paul had a nice all around game scoring seven points, grabbing seven rebounds and dishing out six assists. Kobe Bryant struggled terrible scoring six points one for six shooting. Russell Westbrook scored seven points on three for seven shooting. Kevin Love scored seven points while grabbing eight rebounds but was three for eight at the free throw line. For team USA they shot 35-79(44.3%) from the field, 10-33(30.3%) from three point range and 19-31(61.2%) from the free throw line.

For Lithuania who almost pulled off the upset they shot 38-65(58.4%) from the field, 7-16(43.8%) from three point range and 11-15(73.3%) from the free throw line. They also out-rebounded the United States 42-37. They were led by Linas Kleiza who scored 25 points on 10-20 shooting including two three pointers while grabbing five rebounds and dishing out three assists. Martynus Pocius scored 14 points on 6-13 shooting with a three pointer while grabbing seven rebounds and dishing out six assists. If not for 23 turnovers the upset could have happened as the Lithuanians out played the United States in every other facet of the game. Lebron James was too much for them in the end after containing him and shutting down Kobe Bryant much of the game. For Kleiza he played a wonderful game and if there is a rematch he'll be looking to finish the deal next time.

Now there is no questions how the United States will handle pressure as they got to witness it first hand. After looking unbeatable two days ago the United States almost lost a game. James like he did throughout the 2012 postseason put the team on his back and carried them down the stretch. The United States need to figure out what their lineup is going to be as their bigs struggled in this game and the free throw shooting was pathetic. The United States despite having three point guards along with James had just 13 assists as a team which shows they weren't playing team basketball. They have by far and away the most talent of any team in these olympics but if they aren't playing team ball they won't win the gold medal it is as simple as that.

Observations:

- Carmelo Anthony might be the only superstar in the history of sports to ever become forgotten while playing for a New York team. Well these Olympics Anthony is showing you why it wouldn't be wise to forget about him. A game after his record setting performance proving it was no fluke Anthony scored 20 points and carried the team most of the game until James took over down the stretch. In these Olympic games Anthony is averaging 20.5 PPG and making 3.5 three pointers a game including all 14 in the last three games. In his last three games he is averaging 24.3 PPG while making 4.7 three pointers a game. Anthony just in case you forgot is a super star in this league. He is one of the top five scorers in the NBA as he can beat you in so many different ways. Hopefully Anthony can play an entire NBA regular season and postseason like he has show in these Olympics that would be something special to watch.

- If you still don't think Lebron James is clutch then you are admitting your basketball opinion no longer matters. After coming up big over and over again during these playoffs it was James who saved the United States this game. James who has been holding back a lot these games during the blowouts was needed today. He scored 9 of his 20 points in the final four minutes of the game when the game was still in doubt. Without James putting on the superman cape the United States would have suffered an embarrassing loss. Thankfully James bailed the team out. Once the United States is in the medal round look for James minutes to increase and look for him to bring his "A" game as he is clearly coasting right now. James is trying to pull the trifecta which is win NBA regular season MVP, win NBA Finals MVP and win the gold medal in the same year. Only guy so far to accomplish that is Michael Jordan. Well like he did in the playoffs James showed that yes he can close games out and yes he is very much clutch.

The United States definitely got a wake up call that yes by simply showing up to the game you aren't automatically going to win. Lithuania who has played the U.S. tough now two games in a row both times losing by under six points. The United States hopefully this wake up call to take it out on the rest of the world in the remaining tournament games. The United States have the most talent, best player and best coaching staff in the world. Sometimes all that talent can be tough such as giving out minutes. When the medal rounds began Durant, James and Bryant will be playing more as they should. By them playing more that also means minutes will be cut back for some other talented guys. This game was scary almost too scary for the United States. This game also proved that James can close out games but in all honesty it shouldn't have even came down to James closing this game out. If the United States had played better defense or made their free throws this isn't so scary. The United States proved when push come to shove that they can find a way to win. Hopefully in the future they aren't in this situation again for the remainder of the Olympics.