OLYMPIC GAMES | BASKETBALL
Who are the biggest snubs on Team USA’s Olympic basketball roster?
The Team USA men’s basketball roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics is stacked with superstar talent. However, a few notable players missed the cut, leaving fans and analysts surprised.
As the Olympics approach, the announcement of Team USA’s basketball roster is always a moment of intense scrutiny and debate. This year is no different. While the selected team features a wealth of talent, several high-profile players who many felt were deserving have been left off the roster.
This is the current squad for the Olympics.
Guards: Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors), Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns), Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves), Jrue Holiday (Boston Celtics), Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers).
Forwards: LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers), Kevin Durant (Phoenix Suns), Kawhi Leonard (LA Clippers), Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics).
Centers:Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers), Anthony Davis (Los Angeles Lakers), Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat).
These are the biggest snubs on Team USA’s roster
Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers: Maxey has been instrumental for the 76ers, averaging a career-high 25.9 points, 6.2 assists, and 3.7 rebounds. His scoring ability is impressive, but the team already has other guards with similar profiles.
Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks: Brunson had a stellar season, averaging 28.7 points and 6.7 assists. Despite his statistical excellence, his size and frame might have worked against him. The team opted for younger guards with more Olympic opportunities ahead.
Kyrie Irving, Dallas Mavericks: Irving, a two-time gold medalist, didn’t make the cut despite averaging 25.6 points, 5.2 assists, and five rebounds. His experience didn’t secure him a spot this time. In addition, his antics outside the courts don’t work in his favor.
Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans: The absence of Zion Williamson from the roster has also been a topic of debate. The New Orleans Pelicans’ forward has quickly become one of the league’s most exciting players, with his combination of size, athleticism, and skill. Williamson’s ability to dominate the paint, both offensively and defensively, would have provided Team USA with a unique weapon. His profile is missing on the team.
As the Olympics unfold, it will be interesting to see how Team USA performs and whether the roster decisions pay off in pursuit of the gold medal. The coaching staff led by Steve Kerr is more than equipt to handle the current roster and even though there are notable absences the US is still the favorite to win gold.