Centers
Looking at the potential USA FIBA World Cup roster thus far, it seems to be lacking in one area: having a superstar. Team USA had Kevin Durant in 2016, Stephen Curry in 2014, and LeBron James in 2012. This year’s team will have Anthony Davis. Davis said as much when talking about the 2019 FIBA World Cup:
"“Yes, I plan to play,” he said to the FIBA World Basketball television program. “I like playing for USA Basketball, playing for the USA team, representing my country, so I plan on playing.”"
Anthony Davis gives Popovich and company a go-to scorer and a defensive anchor down low in the paint. With the rest of the Team USA roster filled with capable shooters from the outside, look for Davis to reign in the paint offensively. Due to Davis’s athleticism and versatility, he would slide down to the 4 against bigger teams a la Spain.
For the final two spots on the roster, look for USA Basketball to select both Andre Drummond & Myles Turner. Both players give Team USA different looks. Drummond is a more traditional low post center, playing with his back to the basket and attacking the glass on both ends. Turner is more of a face up player, able to shoot from the outside as well as an excellent weak-side defender.
With elite scorers in Lillard and Davis, solid defenders in Middleton and Turner, and excellent outside shooters in Beal and Love, Popovich will have a well-rounded club come group play in China. Having a good mix of the current stars, future all-stars, and solid NBA starters, Team USA is poised to make a splash and win the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
Honorable mention: DeAndre Jordan