Notably absent

Bryant offered spot, but contract issues put invite on hold

Kobe Bryant says he plans to play for the 2004 U.S. Olympic team. Noah Graham/NBAE/ Getty Images

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) -- Ray Allen, Tim Duncan, Jason Kidd and Tracy McGrady were the first four players chosen Thursday for the 2004 U.S. Olympic men's basketball team, with Kobe Bryant conspicuously absent.

The long-awaited announcement was made in Colorado Springs, Colo., by USA Basketball, which also issued a statement regarding Bryant's absence.

"Kobe Bryant has indicated to the USA Basketball Senior Team Committee that he is very interested in participating on the Senior National Team," the national team organizing committee said.

"He has been extended an offer to play for the USA Senior National Team, however, he has yet to sign the standard USA Basketball player contract. USA Basketball remains hopeful that he will be added to the roster at a future date."

Bryant said last month he plans to play on the team, which will compete in the Americas zone qualifying tournament in San Juan, Puerto Rico, in late August.

If the Americans finish among the top three at the qualifier, they will earn a trip to Athens for the 2004 Olympics.

Arn Tellem, the agent for Bryant, did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Allen, of the Milwaukee Bucks, and Kidd, of the New Jersey Nets, were members of the Olympic gold medal team in 2000.

Duncan was last season's MVP with the San Antonio Spurs, and McGrady of the Orlando Magic is this season's leading scorer. Duncan was originally named to the 2000 team, but had to withdraw because of injury.

They will be joined by four or five other NBA players when the remainder of the qualifying team roster is announced in the spring. The remainder of American team is expected to include two or three players currently playing overseas or collegiately.

Larry Brown of the Philadelphia 76ers will be the coach.

"It is great for our country, USA Basketball and our league that these four players have made the commitment to play," Brown said. "We're fortunate to have them on this team, as representatives of our country and the NBA. It will be an honor to coach them."

The qualifying tournament Aug. 20-31 will include 10 teams from North, South and Central America.

Among the stronger teams in the field are Argentina, Canada, Puerto Rico, Venezuela and Brazil.

 

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