NOTES

Wednesday was Mia Hamm media day, the one afternoon this week designated by U.S. Soccer officials for a question-and-answer session with the much-in-demand star striker for Team USA.

Yes, her right hamstring is fine and she expects to play 90 minutes against Germany tonight, Hamm said.

No, she doesn’t think she could help the U.S. men’s national team, as one wide-eyed questioner suggested.

“Never happen,” Hamm said, working hard to keep a straight face. “I’d get wiped off the field. It’s flattering, but I couldn’t play at that level.”

And, yes, she had a great time making that television commercial with Michael Jordan.

“It was a blast,” Hamm said. “One of the great things about the experience was how normal it all was. Michael was gracious. He didn’t ask me to treat him differently. He didn’t treat me differently. It was two people who love their sports and have respect for each other.”

Reporter: “So, are you on his level now?” Hamm, laughing: “No way!”

Reporter: “Does he know anything about soccer?” Hamm: “Yes, he does. And if you gave him a week, he’d be on the men’s national team.”

*

U.S. Coach Tony DiCicco said he and his staff have toyed with the idea of changing formations for Germany--possibly employing a 3-5-2 alignment that would include Shannon MacMillan as a flank midfielder--but indicated he will stay with the 4-3-3 set the United States used for its first two games against Denmark and Nigeria.

“We’re pleased with the way we played the first two games,” DiCicco said, adding that he probably won’t replace Cindy Parlow at forward with MacMillan. DiCicco said Parlow’s height (5 feet 11) and heading ability make her especially useful against a tall, physical backline such as Germany’s.

“If we go into the game expecting Mia [5-5] and Tiffeny [Milbrett, who is 5-2] to compete for head balls against the Germans, we’re not going to be successful,” DiCicco said.