Team USA's powers and centers expected to run with the rest

(BEIJING, June 24) -- In its quest to reclaim the top spot in Olympic Men's Basketball, Team USA is likely to play a more up-tempo, run-and-gun style than in previous years. No where is this more apparent than in the team's selection of big men: two power forwards -- Chris Bosh and Carlos Boozer -- and only one true center, Dwight Howard.

Three-time All-Star Chris Bosh of the Toronto Raptors is known for his speed, ball-handling and blocking abilities and deadly midrange, free throw and three-point shooting, making him ideal for an up-and-down style of play. The 24-year-old's lack of heft may make him a liability if matched-up against bigger inside men from other teams.

Carlos Boozer is a solid midrange shooter and an outstanding rebounder, but he lacks the explosiveness and height to be convincing as center. Expect to see him paired with Utah Jazz teammate Deron Williams -- the two are masters at the pick-and-roll.

Two-time All-Star center Dwight Howard is known for incredible athleticism that's revealed in fierce dunks and fiercer blocks. This past NBA season he became the league's youngest NBA rebounding champion, averaging 14.2 rebounds per game. At only 22-years-old, Howard's game is still a little raw -- more power than finesse -- and he's a poor free-throw shooter. But as the team's only center, he'll need to be the anchor of the team in the half-court offense. He averaged 20.7 points, 14.2 rebounds and 2.2 blocks in the 2007-2008 NBA regular season.

Some speculate that Coach Mike Krzyzewski will go with a smaller, quicker lineup during the Olympics, hoping that LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony can handle some power forward responsibilities and using Carlos Boozer, at times, in the five-spot. If the interior defense suffers as a result, Team USA will aim to outrun and outscore its opponents to win.