LeBron James plans to return to Olympics

LeBron James plans to return to Olympics

Miami Heat forward LeBron James said he’s willing to represent the United States for the third time in the 2012 Olympics to be held in London. LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, and Miami Heat teammate Dwyane Wade and other NBA stars formed what was dubbed the “Redeem Team” who won the gold medal for basketball in the Beijing Games.

James said we he will wear the USA Basketball jersey once again if U.S. coach Mike Krzyzewski invites him back.

“Coach K has my number. I have his number,” the NBA superstar said. “If he needs me, I’m there.”

The Americans are assured of a spot in London by virtue of winning this year’s World Championship in Turkey. That team did not feature any player from Beijing and were composed of Kevin Durant and players which were considered second-tier stars.

Earlier this week on coach Krzyzewski’s radio show, the Los Angeles Lakers’ Kobe Bryant also expressed his interest to play in London.

“You guys want me there, I am there and I’m ready to defend,” Bryant said. “And then when you guys need me to put some points on the board, I’ll do that, too.”

James’ teammates Wade and Chris Bosh, may also be invited to return although Wade was noncommittal when asked recently.

Other members of the Beijing squad like Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul have recently expressed their desire to play again for Team USA.

“I would love to be a part of that team. I think it’s an unbelievable thing to represent your country,” James said. “If coach K needs me to be a part of that team, I’m available. Hopefully I’m healthy enough to be a part of that team. But I’m always up for the Olympics and representing my country.”

Posted by Andre Monohan on Saturday November 06 2010, 8:58 AM EST. Ref: Sports Illustrated. All trademarks acknowledged. Filed under Featured News. Comments and Trackbacks closed. Follow responses: RSS 2.0