Team USA has handpicked its talent as long as there has been international basketball. Recently, we introduced a new idea: selecting Team USA Basketball by having teams from different regions of the country fight to represent the country. The idea is to assemble the top talent that comes from the region to create the most potent team possible. Then, see how that team matches up against other American regions, as constituted by the Little League World Series.

Last week, we previewed the Northeast and Midwest regions, but today we focus on and the players of the Northwest. All players have to be from, or started playing basketball at the high school level, in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Wyoming, Idaho, or Montana. Who made the cut?

Guards

Aaron Brooks, Chicago Bulls

Aaron Brooks has been a serviceable point guard for the Bulls, especially given how often Derrick Rose is in and out of the lineup. He can score from anywhere on the floor and his only real weakness is on the defensive end. He would be a valuable starting point guard, and would be the spark this offense might need.

Isaiah Thomas, Boston Celtics

Speaking of sparks, off the bench would be Isaiah Thomas, a sixth-man extraordinaire who is more of a scoring guard than anything else. He can run the show and even though he is diminutive in size, his game speaks for itself.

Avery Bradley, Boston Celtics

A backcourt mate of Thomas, Avery Bradley is the defensive stalwart of this team. He can shut down opposing guards and is capable of getting his own shot as well. He would take on a more pass-first role with the bevy of scoring guards on this team, but his defense would be his real contribution.

Jamal Crawford, Los Angeles Clippers

It seems that the Northwest has a knack for producing high quality scoring guards. Crawford is another bench player who can come in and dominate, as he has done for years in the NBA. There’s no doubt he could change a game with his instant offense and deep shooting.

Rodney Stuckey, Indiana Pacers

Rounding out the guard spot is Rodney Stuckey, who is another offensive weapon and shot maker. In the international game, offensive efficiency is critical, and with so many scoring options, Stuckey may be the odd man out. However, in an emergency situation he would be a solid guard to turn to.

Forwards

Kevin Love, Cleveland Cavaliers

At starting forward is Kevin Love, an All-Star who has won 2 Gold medals for Team USA already. His international team experience would be crucial for a team with little other Team USA playing time. Love has learned how to win, and he would be an ideal fit as a stretch four; a position so critical for international success.

Mike Dunleavy, Chicago Bulls

The three point line is an X-factor in the international game, and Dunleavy fits the bill as a defense-stretcher. He is adept at the long ball, as he has shown on the Bulls, and his defense is adequate enough at times to keep him on the floor. If he can knock down shots, his selection and starting spot would be justified.

James Johnson, Toronto Raptors

James Johnson is still relatively young, and as he plays more for the Raptors, he impresses more and more. Johnson is versatile and can play either the power forward or the small forward when necessary, and his rebounding and defense are great additions.

Terrence Jones, Houston Rockets

Terrence Jones was just starting to come into his own last year before he was injured. Team USA wins largely due to its athleticism, and Jones is athletic and lanky at the power forward spot. He can shoot from range and can bang inside, and that makes him an ideal fit.

Marvin Williams, Charlotte Hornets

Marvin Williams may not see the floor much, but when he does he’ll be asked to fill in on the wing and make plays. Williams has had a journeyman’s career, but he can provide enough scoring to justify his selection.

Terrence Ross, Toronto Raptors

By all accounts, Terrence Ross had a down year. However, he is still a mega-athlete and can get hot from behind the arc. This team needs more athleticism on the wing, and if Ross can crack the rotation, he provides just that.

Carlos Boozer, Free Agent

Last but not least, Carlos Boozer makes the cut as the grizzled veteran with wisdom to impart. Boozer was part of the failed 2004 Olympic team that won Bronze, but also was part of “The Redeem Team” in 2008, which re-asserted the USA as the world power. Boozer still has enough gas left in the tank to help, and his leadership would be immeasurable.

Just Missed the Cut

Mario Chalmers, Jason Terry, Spencer Hawes, Kyle Singler

Team Northwest is an interesting combination of size and shooting, but they lack true playmakers that can change how a defense plays them. Most guards are shoot first, and that could leave the frontcourt without enough touches. The international experience on the team helps, but may not help enough to win. Stay tuned as we preview more regional squads, leading up to the hypothetical LLWS-style tournament to determine who earns the right to represent Team USA.