The versatile 7ft Dallas Mavericks forward feels USA’s strength in depth is their best asset, and backs them to cope even with the absence of Kobe Bryant from their squad.

"The Americans are the favourites," said Nowitzki following Germany’s 95-75 win over Canada in a warm-up game on Sunday. "They are really stacked. The only guy they don't have is Kobe.

"But they still have Dwyane Wade and LeBron (James) and plenty of other guys.

"After them, everything is open. Spain and Pau Gasol will be really strong. But the field is very open and everybody can beat everybody. But I think the Americans are the team to beat."

Nowitzki praised Team USA's coaches for bringing in role players to go with their superstars.

"They’ve found a really good mix," he said, However, he believes Bryant, who is sidelined with a knee injury, will be a big loss to the tournament.

"It would have been a great show for basketball if Kobe could have come along," he said. "But they (the Americans) still have a lot of great and talented players for the world to watch."

Germany will face Spain, New Zealand, Angola, Panama and hosts Japan in Group B in Hiroshima.

Team USA take on Italy, Slovenia, Senegal, China and Puerto Rico in Group D of the championship, which begins on August 19.

Article courtesy www.fiba.com