Team USA’s journey to gold in Men’s Basketball at the Olympics was filled with unforgettable highlights that will be remembered for years.
From Kevin Durant breaking the all-time scoring record to Steph Curry’s clutch three-pointers against Serbia and France, it was a tournament to remember. LeBron James shone brightly too, proving his reliability and earning the Olympics MVP award.
Amidst all this stardom, one key player chose to take a step back to help his teammates shine, honoring a commitment made over a year ago.
On September 12, 2023, Kyle Kuzma of the Washington Wizards expressed the need for a utility player on Team USA. He stated, “USA Basketball needs NBA players who can play their roles. It’s not just about being good with the ball—it’s also about defending and knowing when to take a step back.”
Shortly after, Devin Booker chimed in, replying, “I’ll do it,” and he kept that promise.
Booker wasn’t looking to steal the spotlight; rather, his aim was to be the versatile player the team needed, and head coach Steve Kerr recognized that value.
In the 2024 Paris Olympics, Booker averaged 11.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game—the third-highest on the team. His contributions may not have been the flashiest, but he consistently logged significant minutes on the court, outpacing stars like Anthony Davis and Joel Embiid.
Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images
Booker showcased his skills decisively, leading the charge against Brazil with 18 points and impressively shooting 5-for-7 from beyond the arc. In the final against France, he matched Durant with 15 points, shared the second-most rebounds with LeBron (6), and contributed three assists.
While household names like James, Curry, and Durant dazzled with their feats, it was Booker who truly held the team together. Without his dedication, Team USA’s performance might have looked very different this year.
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