OKC Loud Links: Team USA Faces Nigeria Today

Team USA is back in action this afternoon, facing the Nigerian national team. The game starts at 4:15 local OKC time, which means that the Americans likely had a comfortable practice earlier in the day that involved Russell Westbrook and Andre Iguodala press-trapping Chris Paul and Deron Williams up and down the court for 2 hours. You know, relaxing stuff.

SB Nation Free Agency Stream 2012

Stay on top of all player movement and rumors by checking out SB Nation's stream throughout the day.

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Westbrook Waiting for His Mission | NY Times

There is nothing wrong with leaning on easy baskets, but Westbrook is too good to be rendered so useless in halfcourt situations.

Serge Ibaka is a Beast | Lockerz

Er...something.

Chris Collins: USA Can Be Beaten | Sports Radio Interviews

Well, sure. But what is important to note is the incredible margin for error Team USA has in what constitutes "playing poorly."

Shirtless Kobe Stirs the Tabloids | Yahoo! Sports

Kobe Doin' Work.

Summer Better Than Others | Bouncex3

Beware the allure of small sample sizes.

Stackhouse Calls Own Number, Hits Buzzer Beater | Ball Don't Lie

Good for Jerry Stackhouse, who has earned a 1-year contract with the Brooklyn Nets. I also think it's kind of funny that he was playing for a team called, "Banks Law Firm."

4 Overlooked Free Agent Signings | Behind the Basket

I like the fact that Kirk Heinrich's contract value has finally aligned itself with his personal value.

Teams Left Smiling After Off-Season | Sports Illustrated

Worth noting that the Hawks make this list for all of the dead weight they just kicked to the curb.

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Below the jump, Russell Westbrook smiling devilishly.