- The 2024 Olympics are nearing and all eyes are on the American stars
- Some of the best players in the NBA have committed to Team USA already
- There is no excuse for this side to not dominate the Olympics against even the toughest competition
When it comes to international basketball, there’s no name more synonymous with dominance than Team USA. If there is a more perfect example than that, just look at the 2023 FIBA squad that just destroyed Italy in the quarterfinals of the tournament by a 37-point margin as they head to the Semifinals.
Based on what we are seeing from the Americans whose team was marginalized due to “lack of superstars”, one can only imagine how dominant the 2024 Olympics side can look if the very best suit up for them.
As we look ahead to the 2024 Olympics, the basketball world is abuzz with anticipation about the potential powerhouse that the United States can assemble.
In this article, we delve into the powerful squad of Team USA, fielding a formidable squad for the 2024 Olympic Games. From seasoned NBA veterans to rising stars, the talent pool in American basketball runs deep.
With very possibly the last time we can see three of the greatest players ever LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry play with each other.
Team USA has the opportunity to create a roster that not only exudes skill but also embodies the spirit of competition and national pride.
Not to mention, it might even challenge the 1992 Dream Team in terms of the sheer number of All-Star players because that side was clearly missing Isiah Thomas and Shaquille O’Neal.
Join us as we explore the possibilities, examine potential lineups, and discuss the key factors that could shape Team USA’s quest for gold in 2024.
With a rich basketball heritage and a legacy of excellence to uphold, let’s dive into why Team USA has the potential to send a powerful, awe-inspiring squad to the 2024 Olympic Games.
Here is the depth chart of 12 superstar players that can take Team USA over the top in international dominance.
Point Guards – Stephen Curry, Kyrie Irving, Damian Lillard
Team USA’s potential point guard depth chart features three elite players, all of whom are among the best in the NBA at their position. This depth not only provides offensive firepower but also flexibility in lineup combinations.
Stephen Curry is widely regarded as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history. His remarkable three-point shooting ability, deep range, and off-the-dribble shooting make him a constant scoring threat.
As a result, Curry would likely be the starting point guard as his coach, Steve Kerr wants him to lead the line for the Americans. His ability to stretch the floor and draw defenders away from the paint can open up driving lanes for teammates and create space for other shooters.
Irving can play a vital role as the primary ball-handler when Curry is resting. Kyrie Irving is known for his dazzling ball-handling, creativity around the rim, and clutch performances.
He’s a scoring machine with a wide array of offensive moves and the ability to finish in traffic, and he can still destroy defenses after posting 27.1 points per game in 2023.
Finally, there is no doubt Damian Lillard belongs on Team USA’s roster. Lillard can serve as a scoring spark off the bench or play alongside Curry or Irving in certain lineups. His ability to hit deep threes and perform under pressure can be a game-changer.
Shooting Guards – Devin Booker, Donovan Mitchell
The synergy between the point guards and shooting guards will be crucial, as it allows for diverse offensive schemes and defensive strategies.
With Booker and Mitchell, Team USA can field lineups that are not only high-scoring but also capable of stifling opponents defensively.
Devin Booker can be a key scoring option alongside the point guards. His ability to stretch the floor and score from various positions on the court can be a valuable asset.
Additionally, his experience in big moments, such as the NBA Finals, can come in handy during pressure situations in the Olympics. After posting 27.8 points per game in 2023, Booker is the best that the NBA has at the shooting guard position.
As Devin Booker’s backup, Donovan Mitchell can provide scoring off the bench or start in certain lineups. His athleticism and defensive intensity can energize the team on both ends of the floor.
Mitchell’s ability to create his shot and attack the basket makes him a versatile asset as he hopes to boost his resume because four All-Star Team selections are not enough for a player who wants to one day make the Hall of Fame.
Small Forwards – LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard
LeBron James and Kawhi Leonard bring a combination of star power, versatility, and leadership to the small forward position. The pairing of LeBron’s playmaking and Kawhi’s two-way capabilities can create mismatches and control the tempo of the game, meaning Team USA’s small forward position is utterly unbeatable.
LeBron James is one of the greatest basketball players of all time. He possesses exceptional basketball IQ, playmaking ability, versatility, and leadership. He can score, rebound, pass, and defend at an elite level.
Even at 39 years old, LeBron would likely play a central role as the team’s primary playmaker and leader. He can initiate the offense, create mismatches, and make his teammates better in moments when he isn’t being saved for critical moments.
Kawhi Leonard can be a versatile two-way threat for Team USA. He can guard the opposing team’s best player while contributing offensively. His scoring and defensive ability provide balance to the team, making him a critical asset on both ends of the court.
If he can stay healthy as he wants to play for Team USA, that would start making this team unbeatable.
Power Forwards – Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, Zion Williamson
Kevin Durant is likely to be a focal point of the offense and a leader on this Team USA squad. He can play both forward positions, stretch the floor, and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. In 2023, despite the drama around him, Durant averaged 29.1 points per game.
His experience in international play and ability to perform under pressure make him a vital asset as a three-time Olympic champion. There isn’t a defender in the Olympics who can stop him and that means the USA has a major advantage on the offensive side of the floor.
At the same time, Jayson Tatum can provide scoring punch and defensive prowess as a starting power forward or come off the bench as a key scorer. His ability to create his shot and play on the wing adds a dimension of versatility to the frontcourt.
Finally, the only legitimate power forward in terms of build, Zion Williamson is a physical force with incredible athleticism and finishing ability around the rim.
He’s a strong rebounder and can be a disruptive defender. While he primarily plays as a forward, he has the agility and speed of a guard.
If Zion can stay healthy, Team USA’s rotation of power forwards means there is not a single weakness in the post for the team.
The trio of Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, and Zion Williamson at the power forward position gives Team USA a potent combination of scoring, versatility, and athleticism in the frontcourt.
Centers – Anthony Davis, Bam Adebayo
Anthony Davis is likely to start at the center position, providing rim protection and anchoring the defense. His ability to switch onto perimeter players and guard multiple positions is invaluable in modern basketball.
Based on what we saw last year (25.9 points and 12.5 rebounds per game), Davis is incredibly impactful when he is healthy.
He can also contribute as a scoring option, particularly in pick-and-roll situations with the elite playmakers he will play alongside including LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Damian Lillard among others.
In terms of the starting center spot, it can’t get better for the Americans than Anthony Davis.
Bam Adebayo can serve as a valuable backup center or play alongside Anthony Davis in certain lineups. His energy, athleticism, and ability to switch on defense make him a versatile asset.
Adebayo can also be an effective roll man in pick-and-roll sets and contribute with his passing skills based on what we saw from him last year with the Miami Heat.
Team USA’s center rotation featuring Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo provides a combination of elite rim protection, rebounding, and defensive versatility.
Both players are capable of guarding multiple positions, allowing the team to switch defensively and disrupt opponents.
Team USA Will Sweep The Tournament To Win Gold
Overall, Team USA boasts an impressive roster of NBA superstars with diverse skill sets. They have scoring, playmaking, shooting, and defensive capabilities at every position across the 12-man roster.
Many of the players on this roster have extensive international experience, having represented Team USA in previous Olympics and FIBA competitions. This experience can be invaluable in navigating the nuances of international play.
The presence of veterans like LeBron James and Kevin Durant provides leadership both on and off the court. Their ability to guide and mentor younger players can be instrumental in the team’s success.
While the potential for Team USA to sweep the tournament and win gold is evident, it’s important to acknowledge that international basketball has become increasingly competitive, with many countries fielding strong teams.
Winning the gold is obviously never guaranteed but it is also important to look at the competition.
The first major name is France. Victor Wembanyama will have NBA experience under his belt and he is someone Team USA needs to prepare for.
Rudy Gobert is also a defensive beast in the paint and size will be their advantage while Nando De Colo and Nicolas Batum might not retire and go for one last run.
Australia is also a major problem with youngster Josh Giddey proving himself to be a future star. Not to mention, they have real talent beside him.
Ben Simmons (who will play for Australia), Dante Exum, Matisse Thybulle, Thon Maker, and Jock Landale can also play hellacious defense when required and Patty Mills and Joe Ingles will be pushed to return.
Serbia has the two-time MVP and reigning NBA champion Nikola Jokic along with notable NBA players such as Bogdan Bogdanovic and Milos Teodosic who can play important roles.
Jokic was able to destroy the competition en route to the 2023 championship, so there is no reason to believe he can’t do the same in international competition.
Even Slovenia and Greece will be very tough competitors due to Luka Doncic and Giannis Antetokounmpo, as these are two of the top five talents in the world and will continue to gain NBA knowledge.
As great as the competition is, none of those aforementioned teams have the sheer depth that the USA has. No team can shoot like them because Curry, Lillard, and Durant are three of the best who have ever done it. Athleticism is also key because Mitchell, Tatum, Williamson, and Davis are tremendously gifted at their positions.
Veteran experience and leadership are also key because no team can feature LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry, and Kawhi Leonard who have come through in pivotal moments in NBA competition.
With the best coaching in the world in Steve Kerr and plenty of preparation, this USA could sweep their way through the tournament and also win gold to place the Americans back on top of the basketball world.
