This morning the United States men’s basketball team returned back to its rightful place atop the basketball world for the first time since 2000.  After poor showings in the 2002 and 2006 World Championships and a bronze medal in the 2004 Summer Games, the USA set out on a 3-year commitment to build chemistry and camaraderie on and off the court, earning it the nickname The Redeem Team heading into this year’s world tournament.

But how much is this Redeem Team worth?

With a team assembled of the NBA’s elite, it was surprising that only 3 of the league’s top 25 highest-paid players were on the USA roster - Jason Kidd $21.4M, Kobe Bryant $21.3M, and Michael Redd $15.8M.  The 12 players on The Redeem Team will combine to earn $160.6M in 2008-09 NBA estimated salaries, an average of $13.4M each.  However, that figure includes Deron Williams ($5M) and Chris Paul ($4.6M), who are both entering the final year of their rookie contract - both of whom recently signed contract extensions of nearly $70M over 4 years - an average of roughly $17M per season.  Take those two salaries out and it cost $151M for 10 guys, an average of $15.1M per. Read more

We’ve come a long way since the Dream Team of 1992. Bird and Jordan have been replaced by Bryant and James. And just because they play in the NBA doesn’t mean they’re the best. But at the Summer Games in Beijing this year, we stand a good shot at taking gold. And what better way to celebrate our chances than with super hot chicks? (Hint: There is no better way.) The game doesn’t air until 2:30am Sunday morning (Saturday night, for most of you), so we suggest you check out the cheerleaders from all the starter’s home teams and call it a day.

Check out the Cheerleaders of the US Olympic Redeem Team Players after the break! Read more