LeBron in Athens

I didn't see the game so I don't know how representative it is, but it sounds like LeBron is getting quite a bit of credit for the men's team not dissappointing (yet). It's probably wise to reserve judgement on the team and LeBron until they get at least into the medal round though.

From ESPN's Page2:

Two Words For You:
JAMES. GANG.

More LeBron is the solution to what's ailing U.S. Hoops.

The 89-79 win over Australia (coming from 12 points behind) was notable for the dominant 24-12 fourth quarter. On the floor for the entire period? LeBron.

Turns out he's a pretty stellar international player -- because the entire Olympic trick is passing and he does that better than anyone else on the roster. The U.S. played better precisely because LeBron was in there.

"Playing freshmen" might be anathema to Larry Brown's sensibilities, but it's time for him to build on his decision to play LeBron for the entire fourth.

If LeBron leads the U.S. in minutes played, it will win the gold and quash the critics. If Brown overthinks and limits LeBron's minutes -- because he's young, because he likes to celebrate after baskets, whatever -- the U.S. will have no one to blame but the guy doling out the PT.