9 players selected for U.S. Olympic basketball team
USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo announced 9 of the 12 spots for the U.S. Men's basketball team for the 2012 London Olympics, according to Fox Sports Florida.
Colangelo announced that LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul and Deron Williams were all assured a spot, with Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Kevin Love and Tyson Chandler filling out the nine spots.
There is expected to be a competition throughout the week to determine which of the six remaining players will fill out the final three spots. The six candidates include Blake Griffin, Andre Iguodala, Rudy Gay, James Harden, Eric Gordon and the 2012 first overall draft pick Anthony Davis. Colangelo did specify that despite Davis suffering from a sprained ankle, he would still be considered for one of the spots.
The three finalists who do not earn a spot on the team will be the team's alternates. Colangelo also said that Lamar Odom removed himself from the running, and that there would be no more additions to the team. The final roster will be announced Saturday, July 7.
