This summer was special in many ways, and one of the things that made it unforgettable was the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Among many sports disciplines, basketball always stands out as the biggest spectacle. It is the only competition besides the NBA which is important to the US players. After an exciting tournament, the USA managed to come on top and win gold! Even though they were favorites before it started, the players lived up to them and wrote their names in history books. Considering the importance of that achievement, which of them could transfer that success to their club in the new season?
The Success of the USA Basketball Team at the Olympics
It can easily be said that the Olympic Basketball Gold “belongs” to the USA team. They won 17 of them from the total of 21 previous tournaments! The Soviet Union (now Russia) managed to grab 2, while Yugoslavia (now Serbia) and Argentina took 1 each. Therefore, it is no wonder that sites like jaxon predict the USA as the favorite before it even begins. This latest success marked 5th gold in a row, and 8th in the last 10 Olympic Games. This was also probably the last Games with the national team for LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Kevin Durant.
Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, and Derrick White
The Celtic boys came into the tournament as the reigning NBA champions and added another success to that title! Tatum, Holiday, and White’s team are considered the favorites to defend their NBA title. It can be said that these players have a great winning streak, and they are dedicated to continuing it in the new season. They are the largest group of players that represented the USA from a single club, and that benefits the Boston Celtics a lot. It seems like they will have another great campaign next season.
LeBron James and Anthony Davis
One of the greatest players in the NBA, and holder of a record for the most points scored in the league, led his nation as a captain and claimed the title of the MVP in Paris. With the Lakers not playing well in previous seasons, it seems that this was the crown of The King’s achievements. He and Anthony Davis will try to put on a great show, but it doesn’t look like they will achieve great things this season. Also, we must include the fact that Bronny James is a project that will get most of LeBron’s attention. Becoming the first father-son tandem in the NBA is yet another notch in his rich career.
Anthony Edwards
Rising superstar, and the youngest member of the Dream Team this summer is probably the player who will be under the biggest spotlight. It is fair to state that Olympic success will mean the most to this young player, who can rightfully expect great things for the rest of his career. His Minnesota Timberwolves have great odds when it comes to the predictions for the new season, and in the last one, they reached the Conference Finals where they lost to Dallas Mavericks, beating Nikola Jokic’s Denver on the way.
Conclusion
Once again, the USA proved that their basketball team “owns” the Olympic gold medal. After that success, the big question is – who will continue the winning streak when it comes to the NBA? Many of them are contenders, and we are excited to see who will come on top.