http://www.sacbee.com/content/sports/story/14224659p-15049240c.html
By Sam Amick
Call it modesty or secrecy, but Kings center Brad Miller didn't want to discuss his apparent selection to attend Team USA's training camp.
Kenny Thomas, however, had no problem.
"He told me (he was picked) awhile ago," the Kings forward said.
According to ESPN, Miller was one of the 22 players chosen by team director and Phoenix CEO Jerry Colangelo, who had said he was seriously considering Miller. From the July camp, a 15-man team will go to Japan for the world championships in August.
After some prodding, Miller shared his enthusiasm for the invitation.
"I'm looking forward to bringing (the gold medal) back," he said. "I'm looking forward to having a great experience, learning some stuff from Coach K (Duke and Team USA coach Mike Krzyzewski)."
The process began with a phone call, as Miller's agent, Mark Bartelstein, called Colangelo to inform him of Miller's interest. Miller and Colangelo met for an interview of sorts Jan. 17 before the Kings faced the Suns at Arco Arena.
The pick, like many Colangelo made, was unconventional. With a team full of scoring guards, though, he saw Miller's versatility as a perfect fit for the team and international style. Miller has the experience of playing for the 1997 USA 22-and-under World Championship team and the bronze-medal-winning 1998 USA Men's World Basketball Championship team. He also satisfied one of Colangelo's most important requests: Take pride in playing for your country.
"What you really want are people who get the picture about representing your country, giving something back, redemption, being on a mission," Colangelo told The Bee. "So for all those reasons, (Miller) is very worthy of consideration."
What wasn't expected is that, for now, Miller is the lone center on the squad. San Antonio's Tim Duncan declined an invitation, and Miami's Shaquille O'Neal has a standing invitation.
Kings point guard Mike Bibby wasn't invited. Colangelo is expected to announce the invitees Sunday.
Roster movement - Newcomer Sergei Monia was put on the inactive list against the Cavaliers, with forward Jamal Sampson being made active. Guard Bonzi Wells, who has been out since he reinjured his groin Feb. 3, did not make the trip to Atlanta.
By Sam Amick
Call it modesty or secrecy, but Kings center Brad Miller didn't want to discuss his apparent selection to attend Team USA's training camp.
Kenny Thomas, however, had no problem.
"He told me (he was picked) awhile ago," the Kings forward said.
According to ESPN, Miller was one of the 22 players chosen by team director and Phoenix CEO Jerry Colangelo, who had said he was seriously considering Miller. From the July camp, a 15-man team will go to Japan for the world championships in August.
After some prodding, Miller shared his enthusiasm for the invitation.
"I'm looking forward to bringing (the gold medal) back," he said. "I'm looking forward to having a great experience, learning some stuff from Coach K (Duke and Team USA coach Mike Krzyzewski)."
The process began with a phone call, as Miller's agent, Mark Bartelstein, called Colangelo to inform him of Miller's interest. Miller and Colangelo met for an interview of sorts Jan. 17 before the Kings faced the Suns at Arco Arena.
The pick, like many Colangelo made, was unconventional. With a team full of scoring guards, though, he saw Miller's versatility as a perfect fit for the team and international style. Miller has the experience of playing for the 1997 USA 22-and-under World Championship team and the bronze-medal-winning 1998 USA Men's World Basketball Championship team. He also satisfied one of Colangelo's most important requests: Take pride in playing for your country.
"What you really want are people who get the picture about representing your country, giving something back, redemption, being on a mission," Colangelo told The Bee. "So for all those reasons, (Miller) is very worthy of consideration."
What wasn't expected is that, for now, Miller is the lone center on the squad. San Antonio's Tim Duncan declined an invitation, and Miami's Shaquille O'Neal has a standing invitation.
Kings point guard Mike Bibby wasn't invited. Colangelo is expected to announce the invitees Sunday.
Roster movement - Newcomer Sergei Monia was put on the inactive list against the Cavaliers, with forward Jamal Sampson being made active. Guard Bonzi Wells, who has been out since he reinjured his groin Feb. 3, did not make the trip to Atlanta.
