Open Mic: In Olympics '08 Michael Phelps and Men's Basketball Matter Most to Me

With only a few days remaining until the Olympics commence, I wait in anticipation for two things above all else—Men's basketball and Michael Phelps.

Now with all due respect to the other athletes and events, which I intend to follow keenly, these two are the ones I'm really looking forward to.

I'm really pulling for Michael Phelps to break every record possible! How cool would that be?! And, his Sportscenter commercial is great, too.

As for basketball, I'd love to see the USA return to top form. I really feel patriotic when they kick everyone's butts. But, that hasn't happened in a while, so they really need to clean up their act.

I think they have a great chance this time. The team is built in a way that will allow for a very fast-paced game. They are athletic, strong, and speedy with superstars like LeBron James and Kobe Bryant. Even their big men, Chris Bosh and Dwight Howard, are exceptional athletes. But, wait—what's Jason Kidd doing there?

Well, as much as I'd like to poke fun at the fact that he doesn't quite fit in the profile of the rest of the team, I actually like him there. He is a veteran and his presence can stabilize the many superstar personalities in the locker room.

He has great vision and passing abilities, and therefore will be able to make the stars shine brighter. He and Chris Paul should make for a killer point guard tandem.

The athleticism of the players is highly suitable for a fast-paced offense. Coach K is very experienced with that offense, which should play out well for the Americans.

These players are also strong defensively, so look for a stifling defense to go along with the high-flying offense.

So, my predictions—or more correctly my wishes—for the upcoming Olympics obviously include much success for the Stars and Stripes, but more for Michael Phelps and the Men's basketball team.