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Camby faces tough decision

Aaron J. Lopez, Rocky Mountain News

Published May 16, 2007 at midnight

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When Marcus Camby's name was mentioned as a candidate to play for Team USA in 2005, the Nuggets center took a wait-and-see approach.

"I would love to represent my country if I'm invited," he said when the selection process was in its early stages in December 2005. "But it's something I've got to sit down and talk to my family about because they want a three-year commitment."

With the Beijing Olympics only 15 months away, the commitment is shorter, but Camby still must consider family matters while entertaining overtures from USA Basketball.

Camby's wife recently gave birth to a baby girl - the couple also has a 4-year-old daughter - and the prospect of spending much of his next two summers on the road and in the gym might not be very appealing.

USA Basketball spokesman Craig Miller acknowledged Tuesday that managing director Jerry Colangelo is interested in adding Camby to the national team program.

Because of his family obligations, Camby has yet to talk to Colangelo. Team USA has a minicamp in late July and will attempt to qualify for the Beijing Games during the FIBA Americas Championship in Las Vegas from Aug. 22-Sept. 2.

Camby could not be reached for comment Tuesday. His agent, Rick Kaplan, said an invitation would be "flattering" but Camby's family situation might prevent him from playing.

Because NBA teams are not required to give permission for their players to compete in major international competitions, Colangelo is not obligated to contact the Nuggets about Camby but might do so as a courtesy.

Camby, who averaged 11.7 rebounds and an NBA-leading 3.3 blocked shots last season, would give Team USA a strong inside presence. He runs well and has shooting range up to about 19 feet, but defense and rebounding are his primary assets.

Camby's Denver teammate, Carmelo Anthony, already is a Team USA member. Anthony led the Americans in scoring last year at the FIBA World Championships.