The USA basketball team has a rich history of dominating the Olympics, clinching four consecutive gold medals since the 2008 Beijing Games. As preparations for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris begin, assembling the dream roster presents quite a challenge due to the abundance of talent available. With only 12 roster spots available and one usually reserved for a young prospect (as Keldon Johnson was in 2020), making the final cuts will be a tough decision.
Here’s a look at who should make it onto Team USA’s roster for the 2024 Olympics:
Guards: For this team, having players who can stretch the floor with their shooting when not in possession of the ball is crucial. International play often involves more zone defenses due to the absence of illegal defense rules, emphasizing the importance of the ability to shoot over zones.
- Stephen Curry: The renowned sharpshooter, Curry, has achieved almost every individual and team accolade in his career, except for an Olympic gold medal. Pairing him with Steve Kerr as the coach could be the recipe for success.
- Damian Lillard: Lillard is coming off an outstanding offensive season, boasting incredible deep 3-point shooting abilities. Imagining him and Curry taking turns launching long-range bombs is an exciting prospect.
- Anthony Edwards: Edwards earned his spot through stellar performances at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup, showcasing his shot-creation skills and becoming a formidable point-of-attack defender.
- Devin Booker: An improved defender and elite shot-maker, Booker already has Olympic experience, contributing to Team USA’s gold medal in Tokyo.
Apologies to: Ja Morant, James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Jalen Brunson, Zach LaVine, Tyrese Haliburton, Austin Reaves, Trae Young, De’Aaron Fox, Kyrie Irving, Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday, Bradley Beal
Forwards: Selecting forwards proved to be challenging, with the omission of players like Jimmy Butler. Shooting remains a premium, and this roster prioritizes proven winners with high basketball IQs.
- Kevin Durant: Still one of the NBA’s top five players, Durant’s length would be invaluable, addressing size issues that Team USA faced in recent international competitions.
- LeBron James: At 39, LeBron could be the elder statesman of the team. His leadership and passing could be beneficial, although his acceptance of an invitation remains uncertain.
- Jayson Tatum: Tatum’s versatility as a two-way player makes him a valuable addition to any setting.
- Paul George: George’s ability to cover multiple positions and excel in switch-heavy schemes aligns perfectly with Coach Kerr’s strategy. He’s a great two-way player who doesn’t require constant ball handling.
Apologies to: Jimmy Butler, Kawhi Leonard, Zion Williamson, Khris Middleton, DeMar DeRozan, Mikal Bridges, Brandon Ingram
Bigs: While Team USA lacks elite big men like Nikola Jokic, several strong players can serve as defensive anchors.
(Note: Joel Embiid was omitted due to his dual citizenship with France and the unlikelihood of playing.)
- Anthony Davis: One of the NBA’s premier defenders, Davis can switch on the perimeter and dominate the paint.
- Draymond Green: If Curry is on the team, Green’s synergy with him is crucial. Green is an exceptional defender and a smart player in his own right.
- Brook Lopez: Lopez provides the physical presence Team USA often needs against imposing bigs. His rim protection skills make him a valuable asset in international play.
- Bam Adebayo: Adebayo’s versatility allows him to adapt to various lineups, making him a valuable piece in plugging any potential weaknesses.
These selections would make up a formidable Team USA squad for the 2024 Olympics, aiming to continue their gold medal streak.
