When They First Played Together

Jake Appleman talks to Olympians Deron Williams, Andre Iguodala and Carmelo Anthony about the first time they played together internationally, at the Junior World Championships in Venezuela 10 years ago and how they adjusted to the different game, the different food and the different culture.

It was a roster with a number of future NBA players, including Chris Bosh, Aaron Brooks and D-Will's future teammate on the Jazz and Nets, Kris Humphries. Appleman writes of how Williams was told that he needed to get in better shape and how the 18 year olds made their way in the world.

One fun footnote: The next year, Williams wore the USA uniform again and played on the Under-19 team in Greece. His back-up at point guard? C.J. Watson.

• Team USA’s International Education, Before the Games - Jake Appleman - New York Times