Within minutes of the U.S. men’s basketball team defeating Spain in the gold medal game this weekend, something awesome happened.

Dwight Howard and Chris Paul said they would represent the U.S. again for the London Games in 2012 if asked to do so.

That got me thinking: If I was responsible for putting together that team, who else would I add?

First, I would take Jason Kidd, Tayshaun Prince, Michael Redd and Carlos Boozer off the squad. Sorry guys, but you’re going to be too old or didn’t belong on the team in the first place (read: Prince).

Even though Kobe Bryant will be 34 by 2012, I still think I would offer him a spot. Mostly because he’s a god and could be the old man captain of the team.

The 2003 draft class dominators (LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh) will be in the prime of their careers — scary good. Add Deron Williams to that list, too.

So that leaves four open spots. I know a lot will change between now and then, but here are my current picks: Kevin Durant, Monta Ellis, Al Jefferson and Josh Smith.

If that team doesn’t take the gold then I don’t know who will.