Celtics (and other players) left out in Beijing?

Question

Why is it that none of the 2008 NBA Champions representing the USA in the 2008 SUmmer Olympics? I mean, Paul Pierce proved that he was capable of holding his own against Kobe Bryant, and is indeed a team player. I know KG said he didn't want to particpate (though also curious as to why, personal reasons?), and Ray Allen can compete with Europe's shooting prowess.

Other players I don't see why they shouldn't be part of the Olympics are Tim Duncan, Vince Carter, and Shaquille (even though he's aging, come on, he's still a dominant presence in the paint, which is the strong man they need)

Answer 1

Cuz NONE of boston players are better than the current starting Five ( okay except KG ) .

and Shaq 35 years old Drama queen..... who is lazy  don't want run and he is not even better than Howard right now.....

and vince he just had Surgery ( in the off season which mean Automatic NO )

Duncan was one the Disappointing 04 team..... NO

Answer 2

I never think much about the Olympic.  I don't think any of them care to be on the team either.  Olympic for Track and Field or Swimming and other similar sport where the athletes make his majority of money from playing and winning the Olympic then I can see why they want to be on there.  There is just no incentive for these Pro to play at the Olympic.  Example:  Andy Roddick reject an opportunity to play in the Olympic and rather play in some small tournament in preperation for the US Open.

Few years back, US couldn't get most All-Star NBA player to commit either.  I don't think any NBA players really taking the Olympic seriously.  That is why we lost in the last one.

Answer 3

Yeah, but who will you cut off the current USA roster?

Shaq to replace Howard? No Way!

Vince for Kobe? h**l no!

Duncan for Bosh? No, Duncan doesn't play this basketball team's style. He's more of a halfcourt guy and this team is built to run more.

Ray for Redd? Actually I may make a case. Both are great shooters but Redd is proving he will come off the bench and stroke those 3s at will. Ray is an excellent shooter as well but what if he goes into that cold streak that he had in the Playoffs?

Pierce for LeBron, Carmelo or Wade? No, why? Those guys have been with USA baskeball for a while and we need that kind of chemistry that this team has. Pierce is not even better than any of those 3 players.

Answer 4

i noticed that. i personally hate the celtics, so i'm not upset about the big 3. but it would have been nice to see Tim Duncan.

Answer 5

Pierce

KG

Duncan

Arenas

Answer 6

given the flash traffic that both Lebron and Kowannabe are considering a FIBA career move PERSONALLY I'm glad Paul, Ray and Kevin declined...lol

Answer 7

THEY WANT TO WIN WHY WOULD THEY SEND A CELTIC

Answer 8

What up Cheese Ball,

I'm sure the Big 3, all got invitations and they made a decision to not participate.  Duncan i imagine got an invitation- he was a part of previous teams... in terms of Shaq- i think Dwight Howard and Chris Bosh are definitely right choices over Shaq.  

Vince Carter while he has massive dunks - in terms of overall i am not sure who you would kick out to add him.

Nickster

Answer 9

they were not invited the celtics ray allen and kevin garnett already won a gold metal from 2000,  

Answer 10

They Didn't Go Because There Ain't No Good W33D In China

Answer 11

i agree, COME ON PEOPLE! WHO'S WITH ME!

Answer 12

i don't know why they are left out. i would replace boozer and prince with centers. i dont think they have enough big men but they do have a chance at gold in my opinion

Answer 13

They were not picked to be on the team!!The best players are on the team.Thats why we have a great chance of winning.

Answer 14

shaq is too old, sorry. ray allen and kg said no. pierce and duncan might have to. and vince is not good enough by a long shot.

Yes allen did get an invite and said no. they just said it on espn a little while ago so i know he got asked.

Answer 15

IDK Y pierce didnt get an invite,neither did ray allen

KG did but he declined to come play for the olympics,he already has a gold meadal and he is getting older he is trying to be fresh for the season because he wants another ring

Answer 16

they are obsolete now