Wade, Kobe carry national team to gold medal

The 37 point drubbing of Spain in round robin play meant nothing in last nights rematch. The game remained close throughout, largely in part to a combined lack of defense and good offensive execution. Lebron James and Kobe Bryant got into early foul trouble, so Coach K brought in the tournament's best sixth man, Dwyane Wade. Wade's first half performace was enough to carry the team to halftime with a small lead. In the second half, Kobe took over. Wade finshed with 27 points, Kobe had 25. I wonder what Shaq was thinking when Kobe and Wade hugged at the completion of their interview just prior to the ceremony. Kobe and Wade, when on the floor together, were quite a force throughout the entire tournament. By the way, it's time to stop with the "Redeem Team" crap. While it was cute to start with, it got old fast. Here are some pictures, mostly from the medal ceremony.



Kobe representin


Kobe salutes the Chinese. Wade raises his arms to celebrate his first gold medal.

The team on the podium posing for the crowd before they receive their medals.


You could argue the team was built around these four guys, from left: Bryant, James, Wade, Anthony

James kisses his medal. Greatest accomplishment to this point.


They don't know which camera to look at.

Wade and his medal.

Carmelo during the national anthem. Look closely at his right hand, you will notice he has the Puerto Rican flag tatooed there. Interesting...

Jason Kidd doesn't know what to make of all the younger guys. Deron Williams should really shave his beard.

Unlike Barack Obama, these guys know that when your country's anthem is played, your hand goes over your heart. Not quite sure what Dwight Howard is up to.


Another demonstration of proper etiquette during the national anthem. So funny that the athletes get it, but the man who wants to be commander-in-chief doesn't quite understand.