Loud Links: 07|24|10

In Kevin Durant, New-Look Team USA Has Humble Leader -- NBA FanHouse
Durant, though, doesn't seem to respect the media as much. When asked if it's difficult to stay humble when he must deal with so many press requests, Durant gave an answer that seemed a bit out of character.

"No, it's not,'' he said. "I was always taught that people who like the media are going to build you up to break you down. And we've seen that with LeBron (James, after his joining Miami earlier this month). People are trying to break him down right now. I'm not ever worrying about the media hype. None of that. I'm just going to continue to play my game.''

THUNDER: Thunder Announces 2010 Preseason Schedule

THUNDER: Thunder, USA Basketball Value Green's Versatility
Green has seen time at small forward, power forward and center this week, roles he’s already accustomed to playing with the Thunder. While Green starts games at power forward, he’s often filled in at small forward whenever Kevin Durant checks out and has also played at center when on the floor with Durant, Russell Westbrook, James Harden and Thabo Sefolosha.

Oklahoma City Thunder address needs in offseason, build around budding Big Three - Chris Mannix - SI.com
Durant is a lock to make next month's world championships roster and is considered the face of this new crop of American talent. Westbrook is considered a strong candidate to join him in Turkey while Green's chances of making the team were enhanced when Robin Lopez and David Lee were forced to withdraw with injuries and the Knicks yanked Amar'e Stoudemire out after they couldn't properly insure him for the tournament.