Olympic favorites USA name Rio roster

COLORADO SPRINGS (Rio 2016 Olympic Games) - Kyrie Irving and three other members of the USA's title-winning side at the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup have been named to the country's Olympic roster.

Irving will arrive in Rio not long after capturing his first NBA Championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers, who became the first team in league history to overcome a 3-1 deficit in the Finals to win the best-of-seven series and claim the crown.

Kevin Durant, the 2010 FIBA Basketball World MVP and Olympic champion two years later in London, has returned to the side after missing Spain 2014.

USA 12-player roster for Rio 2016 Olympic Games
Carmelo Anthony	Harrison Barnes	Jimmy Butler	DeMarcus Cousins
DeMar DeRozan	Kevin Durant	Paul George	Draymond Green
Kyrie Irving	DeAndre Jordan	Kyle Lowry	Klay Thompson

Irving was spectacular two years ago in Spain, especially in the Final against Serbia when he erupted for 26 points and made all six of his shots from behind the arc.

Three other members of the USA's triumphant side from 2014 - Klay Thompson, DeMarcus Cousins and DeMar DeRozan - are also in the team.

"I'm anxious to get on the court, and along with my great coaching staff, get to work," said USA coach Mike Krzyzewski. "Since 2006 and including the last two Olympics, our players have represented themselves, the game and our country in an exemplary manner. I know this team will continue that standard."

Carmelo Anthony is set to play at an Olympic Games for the fourth time while there are going to plenty of newcomers.

Harrison Barnes, Jimmy Butler, Paul George, Draymond Green, DeAndre Jordan and Kyle Lowry will play for the senior team for the first time at an Olympics or a World Cup.

"Looking at this team, our overall balance is what strikes me," Krzyzewski said. "We have lightning-quick guards who can score as well as distribute the basketball. We have great shooters and explosive scorers, we're big and athletic, and I think we'll really be able to defend."

The USA will play in Group A with Venezuela, China, Australia and two of the teams that win FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournaments.

The managing director of the USA men’s national team since 2005, Jerry Colangelo, says the players in the squad will give the country an opportunity to win a third straight Olympic gold medal.

"I think I can speak for the entire coaching staff and say we're extremely excited about the team we will field for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro," Colangelo said.

"I love our depth, which is another indication of the depth of talent our national team program is blessed with. We've got a great mix of talent, scorers, past gold medal winners and outstanding youth."

FIBA