Team USA beat the 2004 Olympic gold medalists, 91-76, advancing to the semifinals of the FIBA Americas tournament. But let’s not get too excited; Argentina was playing without Manu Ginobili, Andres Nocioni, Fabricio Oberto and Walter Hermann, leaving NBA-ers Luis Scola and Carlos Delfino to face America’s best.

Kobe Bryant got off to a quick start, scoring 15 points in the first quarter and 27 in the game. Carmelo Anthony added 18 points while LeBron James chipped in with 15. If Team USA beats Puerto Rico in the semifinals, they will clinch a berth in the 2008 Olympics.

And it’s all about the Olympics. Director Jerry Colangelo and head coach Mike Krzyzewski got involved for one reason – to help Team USA win a gold medal. Every one of these wins is a small (but significant) step in that direction.