USA - Bowen axed as Team USA finalise squad for Japan

SAPPORO (FIBA World Championship) - Bruce Bowen has been the last player cut from Team USA with the FIBA World Championship set to tip off on Saturday.

The forward, one of the best defensive players in the NBA with the San Antonio Spurs, was the oldest player in the USA group at 35 years of age.

Gilbert Arenas withdrew earlier this week after picking up an injury in training.

"This has been a great process, it's difficult especially when you get down to the end because you get so attached to the last members of the team," said USA coach Mike Krzyzewski.

"Gilbert and Bruce are every bit a part of this team as the 12 others guys, it's just we can only go forward with 12.

"You have to make tough decisions and our group made that decision and we thank both of them."

Team USA managing director Jerry Colangelo paid tribute to Bowen.

"We made the tough decision, we think the decision that was made protects us where we thought we needed some protection, up front," he said.

"We have versatility in terms of swing people and defenders, which led us to make the final determination regarding Bruce (Bowen). It was very difficult. Bruce is a quality guy, a terrific defender, but it was a numbers game."

Team USA: Carmelo Anthony, Shane Battier, Chris Bosh, Elton Brand, Kirk Hinrich, Dwight Howard, LeBron James, Antawn Jamison, Joe Johnson, Brad Miller, Chris Paul, Dwyane Wade.

Gilbert unfortunately had an injury and Bruce was right there, he could just of easily be on the team because he did a good job. We appreciate that and now its time to concentrate on the 12 people we do have to go forward and try and win a gold medal," said Krzyzewski.

Team USA are in Group D and will open their tournament against Puerto Rico.

From Cindy Garcia-Bennett
PA Sport, Sapporo