JACKSONVILLE, Fla., July 26 - There was a uniformity of appearance, at least. Everyone on the court wore blue mesh practice jerseys and shorts. Feet were gloved in white sneakers with navy blue trim. Carmelo Anthony traded in his powder-blue headband for a more patriotic model.

The 2004 United States Olympic men's basketball team posed for a picture Monday morning, then proceeded with its first practice, five days before its first game.

"We're going to have to mesh in a hurry,'' said forward Emeka Okafor, the former Connecticut star drafted by the Charlotte Bobcats.

Practice, which was closed to the public, was held at the University of North Florida Arena. Windows into the arena were papered over to deter onlookers.

''We're here to do a job,'' guard LeBron James said. ''This is for our country.''