The 2010 FIBA World Basketball Championship was the "Freaks and Geeks" of international basketball tournaments. Each time I tuned in, it felt like I was one of about a dozen people watching magic unfold. It seemed like the barrier for entry was simply flashing your NBA Geek ID at the bouncer (who in this flight of fancy is played by that 300-pound Greek dude). But like Apatow's martyred TV show, this year's tournament, and specifically this version of the US national team, will prove its longevity in the minds of NBA fanatics.
So for the handful of you who were right there with us, watching Coach K and Kid Delicious conquer foreign lands, we think you'll argee with us on what we'll miss the most.
FIVE THINGS WE WILL MISS
1. This USA Team.
We'll never get to watch this collection of basketball players play together again. Which is a cosmic shame, because they were the personification of adrenaline, unity, and humility. Durant and Rose are a duo so forward thinking they probably drink Svedka vodka. Kevin Love is the most talented white guy to ever wave a towel on the bench (I'm too young to mention Celtics-era Walton). The Westbrook-Gordon combo was a Pollack painting off the bench. So raise a glass to the B-Team (and while you're at it, try to come up with a better nickname for them; they earned it).
2. The Turkey Fans.
They cheered and sang their national team into a silver medal. They turned that basketball stadium into a raucous soccer bar every night. And it seemed so rad, even a few thousand miles away.
3. Announcers' Desperate Attempts To Bolster Enthusiasm.
The amount of "Everyone I've talked to," "In Istanbul, we're all going nuts," and "You don't even understand," was frankly adorable. No matter how many times you claim it true, there's no pressure or drama in a 20-point drubbing by team USA; but we truly appreciated the effort, guys.
4. Andre Iguodala: Defensive Stopper.
Iggy's defense was magnificent, and his main concern while in Turkey. He was in every passing lane, cutting off angles and plays three steps before they had a chance to develop. And all he asked for in return was a few lob passes thrown his way for thunderous dunks. Honestly, he looked like a Monstar out there. When he gets back to Philly he'll be burdened with too much of the scoring duties to keep up the defensive sleeper hold that he quieted the world with.
5. Humming They Might Be Giants To Ourselves On A Daily Basis.
Is-tan-buullllll
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