As I’m sure many of you know, the 2012 London Olympics are just around the corner, and two key Lakers players will be participating. While Kobe Bryant will once again be looking to lead Team USA to the Gold, forward Pau Gasol will try to follow up Spain’s Silver medal performance in 2008 with a Gold in 2012.
Heading into the games, Gasol told FIBA.com he’s confident that Spain can bring home the Gold.
“My expectations are high. It will be a tough competition for everyone but I’m looking forward to being in London. My teammates and I will fight for the gold medal. I think that we can win the tournament. We have a lot of talent and everyone will be very motivated to give it their all on the court. We’re afraid of no one.”
Things might be difficult for Spain, however, as they will be without guard Ricky Rubio, who suffered an ACL injury during the NBA season. Still, that isn’t tempering Gasol’s expectations.
Team USA will also be without one of its top players, as Dwight Howard will be out due to a back injury. Still, Bryant is expected to have Kevin Durant, Dwyane Wade and LeBron James on the roster with him, as well as several other NBA stars.