Basketball: Bowen likely won't make U.S. club Web Posted: 08/14/2006 02:21 AM CDT Johnny Ludden Express-News Staff Writer With one exhibition game remaining for the United States before the start of the world championships, it appears increasingly likely Spurs forward Bruce Bowen won't be selected for the national team's active roster. U.S. coach Mike Krzyzewski brought 14 players to Asia for the team's warm-up games but must pare the roster to 12 before Saturday's opener in Japan. Bowen has totaled only 27 minutes, the fewest among the 14 players, in the team's four exhibitions. After not playing at all against Brazil last week, Bowen had three rebounds and an assist in six minutes during Sunday's 111-88 victory over Lithuania. He is the only player on the team who hasn't scored, though he has taken just four shots, all 3-pointers. Before Sunday's game, one USA Basketball official conceded Bowen would have a "difficult time" making the active roster. Though Bowen was named to the team to give the United States a strong perimeter defender, Houston's Shane Battier also could fill that role. If Bowen isn't selected for the 12-man roster, he could still remain with the team and assist with game preparations. The United States will play Korea on Tuesday in its final tune-up game. Oh well at least he had the honor of being invited to tryout. GOOD JOB BRUCE!
