NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 2: Julius Randle #30 of the New York Knicks shoots a free throw against the Atlanta Hawks during Round 1, Game 5 of the 2021 NBA Playoffs on June 2, 2021 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2021 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images

Knicks' Julius Randle Was 'Right There' for Team USA Roster Spot, per Jerry Colangelo

Adam WellsJun 28, 2021

When the U.S. men's basketball roster was finalized for the Tokyo Olympics last week, the name that immediately stood out was Kevin Love.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, USA Basketball executive director Jerry Colangelo said the battle for that spot was close between Love and Julius Randle.

In fact, Colangelo noted that Randle was "right there" with Love, but the Cleveland Cavaliers star's previous international experience pushed him over the top.

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Based on their individual performances during the 2020-21 season, Randle was by far a superior player to Love. The 26-year-old was named to the All-Star team for the first time in his career.