FIBA Americas: The old Kidd's back on the block and Team USA mean business

To all of those naysayers of USA Basketball, let me say two words - Jason Kidd. That's right, the New Jersey Nets guard is back on the team.

Yes, he's in his mid-thirties and yes, he has not won anything in college or the NBA, even though he did reach the NBA Finals two consecutive times in 2002 and 2003. He is also coming off a difficult year personally, in which he filed for divorce from his wife, Joumana. All in all, Jason Kidd did not need USA Basketball. If anything, Team USA needed him after a Third Place finish at the World Championships in Japan.

But one statistic does come to mind in describing him on the international stage, 28-0. That's right, he is the only member of the current team with an Olympic Gold Medal. He remains one of the greatest play-makers in NBA history with skills so versatile, we take for granted his numerous triple-doubles. He is ranked 3rd all-time in NBA history for regular season triple-doubles. The man makes every player better. Ask Richard Jefferson of the Nets.

Team USA is coming off a disappointing 2006. There was talk of redemption and playing as a team. Every player selected to Team USA committed to a 3-year programme implemented by Jerry Colangelo and coached by Mike Krzyzewski. They talked the talk. It was all team. Everyone said the right things. Team USA was back!

If only someone had told the Greeks. They picked and rolled the Red, White & Blue to death, leaving the Americans breathless and bronzed. Bronzed as in third place, Bronzed as in, once again, no Gold since 2000 in Sydney. Which leads to Jason Kidd. That was the last time Team USA won the Gold and JK was their point guard.

Mr. Kidd will have a little help this year. Only six members of last year's team are playing. Team USA added some guys named Kobe and Amare. Needless to say, don't duck as Jason Kidd comes up the court. You might find yourself looking foolish as the ball bounces off  your head because you were not looking.