Coach Maurice Cheeks sees rising 76ers star Andre Iguodala "going up the ladder." The latest rung involves landing a berth among eight to 10 young NBA players invited to practice and scrimmage with the U.S. national team before next month's Olympic qualifying tournament in Las Vegas.

Cheeks, in California, became aware of that development yesterday.

Jerry Colangelo, managing director of the national team, confirmed Iguodala's acceptance Wednesday. According to published reports, others who were tendered invitations include Al Jefferson, Boston; Devin Harris, Dallas; Monta Ellis, Golden State; and David Lee, New York. Portland's Brandon Roy might not be able to participate because of a scheduling conflict.