by Sports Xchange

Updated: September 5, 2008, 3:40 AM EST

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"Everyone wants to talk about NBA players being selfish, being arrogant, being individuals," Bryant said after the U.S. beat Spain and Lakers teammate Pau Gasol in the final game. "But what you saw... was a team bonding together facing adversity and coming out of here with a big win."

Bryant's welcome home was fun, too, with him taking part Sept. 3 in Chicago as Oprah Winfrey honored 150 U.S. Olympians in the season premiere of her talk show.

Bryant was considered by many to be the star of American stars in China, even as swimmer Michael Phelps was piling up the gold medals.

USA Basketball teammate LeBron James called Bryant "probably the No. 1 athlete out here. Added James, Bryant's fellow Nike endorser: "It has been unbelievable to see how big he is as an athlete."

Bryant turned up his offense in the final games and keyed the victory over Spain with some critical shots and passes in the final minutes.

Bryant turned 30 while overseas. Although the Lakers quickly approved him postponing his hand surgery this summer for Olympic play with the idea that Bryant might not take part in international ball again, Bryant said after the final game that he would represent again in 2012, if asked.

"I'm in a great spot right now with the U.S. team, and the team (the Lakers) back home, improvements that we've made, and feeling good," Bryant said.