Sharpshooter sets sights on U.S. roster spot

Stephen Curry knew he was being watched last season as a rookie with the Golden State Warriors.

Not just by coaches, fans and scouts, but by USA Basketball chairman Jerry Colangelo.

In May, Colangelo invited Curry to join the U.S. roster as the team prepares for the FIBA World Championships that begin next month in Turkey.

"You hear things from different people," Curry said Tuesday before a U.S. training camp practice at Cox Pavilion. "I knew they had their eye on me. At the same time, I wasn't sure what was going to happen, because I didn't know what the returning guys were going to do."

Curry, a 6-foot-3-inch guard who can play both backcourt positions, might have the perfect game for international basketball.

He can shoot with range and create openings for himself. And with so many teams playing zone defense, Curry's ability to consistently knock down shots makes him a valuable commodity.

He's also an excellent ball-handler and passer and sees the floor exceptionally well.

"His best thing is he can shoot," U.S. coach Mike Krzyzewski said. "When you're considering a team, you need guys like that."

Colangelo said he likes the fact that Curry can play multiple positions and knows how to adapt.

"But there's no denying what his greatest strength is -- he can flat-out shoot the ball," Colangelo said. "He may be our best shooter, and he's got a real opportunity to help this team."

Curry isn't taking anything for granted.

"There's a lot of good point guards here," he said, referring to Derrick Rose, Russell Westbrook, Rajon Rondo and Chauncey Billups.

Curry made the 2010 NBA all-rookie team, averaging 17.5 points and 5.9 assists.

He also proved to be durable, playing in 80 games. That was important to Colangelo, given the physical nature of the international game.

"He's not afraid to get in there and mix it up," he said of the 185-pound Curry. "I think he'll handle the physical side of things with no problem."

Curry has international experience as a member of the U.S. team that went 8-1 and won silver at the under-19 world championships in 2007.

"It should help some, but this is a much different level," he said. "It's a little more wide open and more physical.

"We've got a very talented, hungry group of guys, and everyone wants to be part of this. I just hope I can make the team."

■ NOTES -- Golden State forward David Lee has been ruled out for Team USA after suffering a torn tendon in his right middle finger. He will have the finger in a split for six weeks. Lee's absence reduces the number of players in camp to 19. Colangelo said there are no plans to replace Lee now that former UNR center JaVale McGee of the Washington Wizards is participating. The 7-foot McGee was invited to camp Monday after Amar'e Stoudemire of the New York Knicks withdrew.

Contact reporter Steve Carp at scarp@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2913.