USA - James commits to FIBA Americas Championship

CLEVELAND (FIBA Americas Championship) - LeBron James has confirmed that he will play for the USA at this summer's FIBA Americas Championship despite his busy year with the Cleveland Cavaliers.

For several months James had said his chances of playing in the tournament were "50-50", and many thought the Cavs' run to the NBA finals would sound the death knell for his hopes of participating.

However, the 22-year-old has now revealed that he will turn out for Team USA when the tournament begins on August 22

He told the San Francisco Chronicle: "I'm going to play. I've had enough time off, and knowing my body more than anybody, I'm ready to play."

His decision has come as welcome news for coach Mike Krzyzewski.

The Duke University coach said: "I know people don't realise the commitment that these guys are making.

"You play well over 100 games in a [NBA]] season, so they give up a lot and when they give up parts of three summers, I ultimately respect their commitment."

The US team have a three-day mini-camp in Las Vegas three weeks before resuming practice in preparation for the 10-team tournament.

So far, USA Basketball has commitments from Kobe Bryant, Jason Kidd, Carlos Boozer, Chauncey Billups, Deron Williams, Mike Miller, Tayshaun Prince, Tyson Chandler, Amare Stoudemire, Michael Redd, Greg Oden and Kevin Durant.

James added: "Kobe's back. We got J Kidd, Chauncey.

"We've definitely got a group that knows how to win. We'll be ready to play."

David Broome
FIBA