Martin to replace Malone on U.S Olympic team ( 2003-08-20 10:00) (Agencies)
New Jersey Nets forward Kenyon Martin was named as a replacement for Karl
Malone on the US basketball team on Tuesday for the Olympic qualifying
tournament.
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Kenyon Martine | Malone, who recently signed with the Los Angeles Lakers after spending his
entire career with the Utah Jazz, left the team last week after learning of his
mother's death.
"This is somewhat unexpected but it is a great opportunity for Kenyon," said
US coach Larry Brown. "He's certainly deserving of this kind of honor and we're
looking forward to having him join the team."
The first overall pick in the 2000 NBA draft, Martin, who got married on
Saturday in Las Vegas, has developed into one of the NBA's top defenders. He
helped the Nets to the league finals the last two seasons.
Last season Martin averaged 18.9 points, 9.4 rebounds and 1.55 blocks per
game.
"This is a great opportunity," said Martin. "I'm very pleased to be added to
the team."
The US begin their campaign on Wednesday against Brazil. The top three
finishers in the 10-nation tournament, which also includes, Brazil, Argentina
and Canada, earn Olympic berths.
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