Paris Olympics 2024: New Faces On USA Basketball (2024)

As we eagerly anticipate the start of the Olympic Games in Paris, the basketball rosters for Team USA's Men's and Women's basketball stand as a beacon of excellence. Comprising a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, this team is poised to showcase the best of American basketball prowess on the global stage. From the iconic Stephen Curry and Joel Embiid making their long-awaited Olympic debuts to dynamic newcomers like Anthony Edwards and Sabrina Ionescu, each player brings a unique skill set and determination to secure Olympic gold.

From the iconic Stephen Curry and Joel Embiid making their long-awaited Olympic debuts to dynamic newcomers like Anthony Edwards and Sabrina Ionescu, each player brings a unique skill set and determination to secure Olympic gold.

U.S. Men's Team First-Time Olympians

Anthony Edwards

Anthony Edwards made his Team USA debut in the 2023 World Cup. Following that performance, he led the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Western Conference Finals this past season, where the young team ultimately fell to the Dallas Mavericks. At just 22 years old, Edwards, who has drawn comparisons to Michael Jordan in his mannerisms, confidence, and style of play, will be making his Olympic debut in the coming weeks.

In the past few weeks, Edwards has expressed his perspective on his role in the team. After averaging 25.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 5.1 assists, Edwards sees himself as the number one option. At 6ft4, his explosive athleticism, scoring ability, and versatility on the court make him a tough player to stop. Along with his high motor, his ability to continuously attack the rim, and his improved jump shot since the World Cup, make him a key piece in the star-studded roster.

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Tyrese Haliburton

Tyrese Haliburton has swiftly established himself as one of the NBA's most promising young talents, celebrated for his exceptional playmaking abilities and sharp basketball IQ. Playing for the Indiana Pacers and averaging 20.1 points, 10.9 assists and 3.9 rebounds per game this past season, Haliburton’s court vision and passing skills have continually impressed both fans and analysts, showcasing his versatility as a guard who can facilitate, score, and defend at an elite level.

His smooth shooting stroke and ability to hit shots from beyond the arc make him a significant offensive threat. On the defensive end at 6ft5, Haliburton’s height and length allow him to be a formidable presence, often disrupting plays and forcing turnovers. Recent standout performances, characterized by his active off-ball defense and key steals, highlight his potential to become a two-way player for Team USA. As he gears up for his Olympic debut, Haliburton’s versatility and relentless energy will be invaluable to Team USA, promising to make a substantial impact both on and off the court.

Joel Embiid

Joel Embiid, a highly recruited player in the Olympic Games, was born in Cameroon and holds both American and French citizenship. Last year, he decided to represent the United States. As the dominant center for the Philadelphia 76ers, he has shown his effectiveness on both ends of the floor, solidifying his position as a unique force on the court.

Last season, he averaged 34.7 points, 11 rebounds, and 5.6 assists, demonstrating his ability to impact the game on both ends. His offensive versatility allows him to shoot from beyond the arc and handle the ball with minimal turnovers, effectively controlling the floor.

Standing at 7 feet tall, his defensive presence in the paint will be an invaluable asset to Team USA's frontcourt, which struggled defensively in the previous FIBA World Cup. His ability to stretch the floor and dominate inside will significantly deepen the team's options against the likes of France, Serbia and South Sudan which have a strong presence on the interior.

Stephen Curry

Stephen Curry, the legendary guard for the Golden State Warriors, is finally set to make his Olympic debut with Team USA in Paris. Renowned for his unmatched three-point shooting accuracy and range, Curry has redefined the game of basketball, making him a constant threat on the court.

His ability to shoot from deep has revolutionized how basketball is played, forcing defenses to stretch and adapt, and leading the NBA towards a trend of volume shooting to win games. This past season, Curry averaged 26.4 points per game, shooting an impressive 40.8% from beyond the arc, along with 4.5 rebounds and 5.1 assists.

Curry’s impact extends beyond his shooting; he is also highly effective off the ball. His constant movement and ability to find open spaces create scoring opportunities for his teammates, keeping defenses on their toes. His ball-handling skills and court vision allow him to create scoring opportunities, making him a dual threat as both a scorer and a playmaker. Beyond the stat sheet, Curry's leadership and experience bring a strategic and calming influence to the team.

As a two-time MVP and three-time NBA champion, his competitive drive and winning mentality will be invaluable assets to Team USA. Curry’s inclusion in the roster not only adds depth but also brings an electrifying dynamic crucial to Team USA's quest for Olympic gold.

Derrick White

Derrick White has stepped up for Team USA, filling in for the sidelined Kawhi Leonard with his versatile game that he finely tuned during his time with the Boston Celtics. Promoted to the starting lineup last season, his Swiss Army knife-like abilities have only blossomed this season. At 29, he's been averaging 15.2 points, 5.2 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game, shooting a solid 46.1% from the field and an impressive 39.6% from beyond the arc. He leads Boston in assists and shows his prowess as both a scorer and facilitator.

Defensively, White's impact is just as significant. Despite not being the tallest or the flashiest at 6-foot-4, he ranks second on the team in steals and blocks per game, highlighting his keen defensive instincts and versatility. His ability to disrupt plays, navigate screens with finesse, and apply relentless pressure on ball-handlers is a testament to his defensive savvy and basketball IQ. His knack for timely steals and crucial stops underscores his value, proving that stats alone don't capture his full impact on the court.

Teaming up with defensive ace Jrue Holiday, White's knack for guarding multiple positions and his disciplined defensive approach, including his ability to draw charges, adds a critical dimension to Team USA's defensive strategy. As White steps onto the Olympic stage, his all-around game promises to bolster Team USA's quest for gold, providing bothdefensive tenacity and offensive efficiency when it matters most.

U.S. Women's Team First-Time Olympians

Sabrina Ionescu

Sabrina Ionescu has been instrumental in generating increased interest and support for women's basketball. During her college career, she achieved an unprecedented feat by surpassing 2,000 points, 1,000 assists, and 1,000 rebounds, a first in college athletics.

At the 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend's Stephen vs Sabrina event, Ionescu showcased her talents by matching the highest single-round score of 26 points in the NBA's 3-Point Contest. As a dynamic guard for the New York Liberty, she is set to make her Olympic debut with Team USA in Paris. Known for her versatility and triple-double potential, Ionescu brings a unique set of skills to the team.

In the current WNBA season, she is averaging 19 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game, demonstrating her ability to contribute extensively to the game. Her exceptional shooting range and quick release make her a constant threat from beyond the arc, while her playmaking abilities enable her to create opportunities for her teammates.

Having led Team USA to a gold medal at the 2022 World Cup in Australia, Ionescu is well-prepared for the Olympic stage. Her strong basketball IQ and competitive drive will be invaluable assets to the team, particularly during crucial moments.

Kahleah Copper

Kahleah Copper's presence on Team USA brings a dynamic blend of explosiveness and scoring to the Olympic stage in Paris. Playing for the Phoenix Mercury, Copper has consistently showcased her ability to impact games with her speed and agility. This season, she has averaged an impressive 23.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, highlighting her capability to score efficiently and contribute to the game.

Her defense not only disrupts opponents but also creates transition offense opportunities that Team USA can exploit to gain momentum. Copper's ability to raise the tempo of the game and capitalize on fast-break opportunities makes her a valuable asset in the team's pursuit of Olympic gold.

In addition to her offensive contributions, Kahleah Copper's defensive efficiency adds another layer of strength to Team USA's roster. Her ability to anticipate plays and create turnovers not only improves her own game but also benefits the team's overall defensive strategy.

With her speed and agility, Copper can guard multiple positions effectively, making her a versatile defender capable of matching up against various opponents. As Team USA looks to maintain its dominance on the international stage, Copper's skill set as a scorer and defender will be instrumental in facing diverse challenges from global competitors.

Alyssa Thomas

Alyssa Thomas brings a relentless and versatile presence to Team USA's frontcourt as she prepares for her Olympic debut in Paris. She plays for the Connecticut Sun and is renowned for her toughness and all-around game.

This season, she has averaged 11.5 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game, showcasing her ability to contribute in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking roles. Her consistency and leadership make her a crucial piece alongside stars like A'ja Wilson and Brittney Griner, providing stability and firepower in the paint.

Alyssa Thomas's impact extends beyond her statistical contributions. Her tenacity on both ends of the court sets the tone for Team USA, influencing the team's defensive intensity and offensive execution. In the 2023 regular season, Thomas came remarkably close to averaging a triple-double, with 15.5 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 7.9 assists per game — a testament to her exceptional versatility and impact.

As she joins a talented Olympic roster, Thomas's ability to excel in diverse roles and elevate the team in critical moments will be pivotal in Team USA's pursuit of Olympic gold.

The Paris Olympics represent more than just a quest for gold medals for Team USA's basketball squad. They symbolize a culmination of dedication, talent, and the enduring legacy of USA Basketball. The mix of youthful enthusiasm and veteran leadership promises not only an exciting tournament but also a platform for passing down invaluable knowledge and inspiration to future generations.

As they prepare to take center stage, Team USA is not only focused on victory but also on leaving a lasting impact on the sport and inspiring basketball enthusiasts worldwide. With their sights set on the podium, this team stands ready to continue the tradition of excellence that has defined USA Basketball for decades.

Paris Olympics 2024: New Faces On USA Basketball (2024)

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