New Jersey Nets forward Kenyon Martin was named as a replacement for Karl Malone on the US basketball team on Tuesday for the Olympic qualifying tournament.

Kenyon Martine

Malone, who recently signed with the Los Angeles Lakers after spending his entire career with the Utah Jazz, left the team last week after learning of his mother's death.

"This is somewhat unexpected but it is a great opportunity for Kenyon," said US coach Larry Brown. "He's certainly deserving of this kind of honor and we're looking forward to having him join the team."

The first overall pick in the 2000 NBA draft, Martin, who got married on Saturday in Las Vegas, has developed into one of the NBA's top defenders. He helped the Nets to the league finals the last two seasons.

Last season Martin averaged 18.9 points, 9.4 rebounds and 1.55 blocks per game.

"This is a great opportunity," said Martin. "I'm very pleased to be added to the team."

The US begin their campaign on Wednesday against Brazil. The top three finishers in the 10-nation tournament, which also includes, Brazil, Argentina and Canada, earn Olympic berths.

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