Shaquille O’Neal, the giant Los Angeles Lakers centre who won most valuable player honours at Sunday’s National Basketball Association All-Star Game, is considering joining the United States Olympic team.
”It depends on how far we go in the playoffs,” O’Neal said. ”I think it’s very, very burdensome. I have to consult with my family and consult with my friends. I’m not sure what I’m going to do.”
”Shaq” was on the 1996 US Olympic gold medal team in Atlanta and played on ”Dream Team II” at the 1994 World Championships in Toronto.
Three vacant places remain on the US squad that will play in August in Athens. A fourth could be created depending on the outcome of Kobe Bryant’s sexual assault trial.
Already confirmed for the US Olympic title defense are NBA stars Tim Duncan, Jason Kidd, Karl Malone, Tracy McGrady, Allen Iverson, Mike Bibby, Ray Allen, Jermaine O’Neal and Bryant.
Kevin Garnett, Vince Carter, Elton Brand and Brad Miller are also candidates for the Olympic squad, although Miller suffered a right ankle injury in Sunday’s NBA All-Star Game. — Sapa-AFP