Bibby, Malone expected to be added to U.S. team

Sacramento, Calif. — Sacramento Kings guard Mike Bibby said Tuesday he will accept an invitation to play for the 2004 U.S. men’s Olympic basketball team, with Karl Malone of the Utah Jazz also expected to join the roster.

Bibby said he was told of the selection during a phone conversation with NBA senior vice president of basketball operations Stu Jackson.

“I talked to Stu today, I’m expecting to be on the team,” Bibby said.

Malone confirmed that he was interested in playing. Malone also represented the United States at the Barcelona Olympics in 1992 and the Atlanta Olympics in 1996.

“I don’t want to put the buggy before the horse because no one has called me to confirm it,” Malone said. “It would be a great honor because I’m not just representing myself or my family, I’m representing USA, the Jazz and Salt Lake City.”

The team will participate in the FIBA Americas Olympic Qualifying Tournament, held Aug. 20-31 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Iverson not petitioning for spot on U.S. team

Philadelphia — Allen Iverson said he would not beg for a spot on the United States national team that will compete in August for a spot in the 2004 Summer Olympics. Now, he might not have to because it looks as if it wouldn’t do any good, anyway.

Kobe Bryant and Kevin Garnett also are expected to accept positions with the team. Guards Steve Francis of Houston, Michael Finley of Dallas and Stephon Marbury of Phoenix also are being considered, and apparently have edged out Iverson.

Rockets activate Rice, put Collier on injured list

Houston — The Houston Rockets activated forward Glen Rice for Tuesday night’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers. Rice, sidelined four weeks with a left shoulder strain, is averaging 9.2 points and 3.3 rebounds in 31 games.

Also, the Rockets placed center Jason Collier on the injured list with a left foot injury.