Team USA Basketball: Previewing The FIBA World Cup Roster

Aug 1, 2014; Las Vegas, NV, USA; USA Team White guard Bradley Beal (28) knocks the ball away from USA Team White forward Mason Plumlee (35) during the USA Basketball Showcase at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

Plucking Plumlee

As much as he surprised a lot of folks when Kevin Garnett was injured last season for the Brooklyn Nets, Mason Plumlee surprised even more when he was elevated from the USA Select Team to the Senior Team. Coach K said that Plumlee was initially included in the pool so they could have 20 players in practice, but he impressed his former college coach in practice.

"[Krzyzewski said this, via NYPost.com] “Mason made a mark during the week, and in the second half of the scrimmage he did very well, so he’s in consideration, no question.”"

Plumlee made the initial 16-man cut, and by that time he became a cinch to make the final line-up.

"“Being with the Nets and around veterans I think only helped him more, especially being around Kevin Garnett, and he’s an easy guy to play with these guys. He doesn’t need the ball long and does the dirty work. He’s a big athlete, and hopefully he’ll be a good defender.”"

With a lot of premium scoring options available, plucking a smart and athletic player like Plumlee could be a diamond in the rough for USAB.