Team USA has always been the only global force in Olympic basketball!
Team USA's roster for the 2024 Olympics in Paris is finalised, featuring future Hall of Famers LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant. Despite the impressive lineup, this team might not be the best ever, even though they're being dubbed the "Avengers" following Team USA's disappointing fourth-place finish in the 2023 FIBA Tournament. We've gathered the greatest "Dream Teams" from every Olympic squad since 1992, when the original Dream Team, led by Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson, dominated the competition. By examining the talent on each roster and their Olympic performances, here's a ranking of all nine Team USA rosters, including the 2024 squad set to represent the country.
The 1992 Dream Team, known as the "Original Dream Team," was the first USA men's Olympic basketball team to feature active NBA players, marking a pivotal moment in international basketball. Led by legends Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Larry Bird, the team revolutionised the sport globally. They showed incredible teamwork and individual skill, like when Jordan passed to Johnson for a layup in the gold medal game against Croatia. Dominating the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, their closest game was a 32-point win over Croatia, with an average victory margin of 43.8 points. The Dream Team remains the greatest basketball ensemble ever.
The 2008 Redeem Team was formed to reclaim the gold medal lost by the USA men's basketball team in 2004. Featuring a blend of veterans and rising stars, the lineup included Chris Paul, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony, and Dwight Howard. Their exceptional playmaking, scoring, and defence made them dominant on both ends. At the Beijing Olympics, the Redeem Team went undefeated, averaging a 27.9-point victory margin. The gold medal game against Spain, a hard-fought 118-107 win, highlighted their resilience and determination. This team displayed American basketball talent and teamwork, setting a high standard for future teams.
The 2024 Team USA squad, featuring LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant, could be a "Redeem Team 2.0" after the 2023 FIBA World Cup disappointment. With Joel Embiid, the reigning NBA MVP, in the paint alongside Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo, they are formidable. Young talents like Jayson Tatum and Anthony Edwards add athleticism and scoring, while veterans Kawhi Leonard and Jrue Holiday provide elite defense. Despite strong competition from stars like Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Luka Doncic, it's hard to envision Team USA not dominating and securing the gold medal with an 8-0 record.
Kevin Durant is among the big three of the 2024 team.
The 2012 Team USA, assembled to defend the 2008 gold, featured NBA superstars and rising talents. The starting lineup included Chris Paul, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Tyson Chandler, combining playmaking, scoring, and defense. Off the bench, talents like Russell Westbrook, Deron Williams, James Harden, Andre Iguodala, Carmelo Anthony, Kevin Love, and Anthony Davis added depth. Dominating the London Olympics with an 8-0 record, they highlighted their strength. A defining moment was the 2008 gold medal game against Spain, a rematch where Team USA won 107-100, solidifying their global basketball dominance.
The 1996 Team USA, the second NBA player-laden squad, featured a blend of veterans and emerging stars. The starting lineup included Gary Payton, Scottie Pippen, Reggie Miller, Karl Malone, and Hakeem Olajuwon, combining defence, shooting, and scoring. Off the bench, talents like John Stockton, Charles Barkley, David Robinson, and Shaquille O'Neal added depth. Dominating the Atlanta Olympics with an 8-0 record, they showcased their prowess. A defining moment was their gold medal game against Yugoslavia, where Team USA won 95-69, highlighting their defensive strength and team chemistry, and securing a triumphant return to gold.
Out of the 19 times Team USA has participated in Olympic basketball, they have won 19 medals, out of which 16 are gold, one silver, and two bronze. With such a dominant roster, their gold tally will likely go up to 17 this year.
