Rudy GAY
#8 | Forward

The Memphis Grizzlies forward has been a cornerstone of the franchise for the past four seasons and thanks to him, they were the second-most improved team in the NBA last season.

This summer, he wants to become a leader in the US national team.

“I remember watching Michael Jordan and Scottie Pippen play for Team USA and it is something that I’ve always wanted to do in my career,” he said.

The 24-year-old participated in the 2009 USA Basketball National Team mini-camp in Las Vegas, leading all scorers with 27 points in the USA Basketball showcase.

Everyone was impressed by his performance.

“I didn't know he was that explosive offensively, and he played really well. Really well,” said USA head coach Mike Krzyzewski.

Ranked 18th in scoring in 2010 (19.6 points), Gay has proven to be one of the NBA’s top young scorers.

“He's a great offensive player, no question about that, and the reputation he has is that of a great finisher late in games, and you want a guy like that with the ball,” said Team USA managing director Jerry Colangelo said.