The USA men's basketball national team has always carried a rich legacy, and this year's squad is no exception. Each player received a bag tag listing the names of legends who wore their jersey numbers previously, a gesture that highlights the honor and responsibility of wearing the Team USA jersey.
Jersey Number 10: Jayson Tatum
All eyes are on Jayson Tatum as he dons the prestigious No. 10 jersey. This number has a storied history with past wearers including Kevin Garnett, Reggie Miller, Anthony Edwards, and Kobe Bryant. Tatum embraces the challenge and opportunity to add his name to this illustrious list.
Jersey Number 13: Bam Adebayo
Bam Adebayo is set to wear No. 13 in Paris, a number that he also sports for the Miami Heat. The legacy of No. 13 is substantial; it was worn by Tim Duncan and Kevin Love during the 2004 and 2012 Olympics, respectively. Shaquille O'Neal also showcased this number in the 1992 and 1996 Games. Adebayo's personal connection to the number adds another layer of significance. "I love the number because my mother also wore it in high school," he expressed.
Jersey Number 6: LeBron James
LeBron James, who will be playing in his fourth Olympic Games, will sport the No. 6 jersey. This number has seen some remarkable players including Team USA coach Steve Kerr during the 1986 FIBA World Cup, and legends like Penny Hardaway, Patrick Ewing, and Bill Russell. James wearing No. 6 adds another chapter to its storied history.
Jersey Number 9: Tyrese Haliburton
The young Tyrese Haliburton will have the privilege of wearing No. 9. This number has been associated with greats such as Michael Jordan, Vince Carter, Andre Iguodala, DeMar DeRozan, Dwayne Wade, and LeBron James. "I was given this number ... I'm the young guy so I just get thrown a number, so not a bad number to get thrown," Haliburton remarked. He also acknowledged the remarkable players who previously wore the number, saying, "It's a pretty good crew."
Jersey Number 4: Stephen Curry
Stephen Curry will be sporting No. 4, a number that has also seen its fair share of legends. Jimmy Butler, Chauncey Billups, Carlos Boozer, and Allen Iverson have all graced the court in the No. 4 jersey for Team USA. Reflecting on the lineage, Curry stated, "That's a pretty solid list."
The USA men's basketball team's upcoming appearances will be closely watched, not just for the talent they bring to the court but also for the weight of history attached to each jersey number. The inclusion of quotes from the players showcases their reverence for the legends who came before them and their readiness to carry forward the legacy behind each number. The current roster is well aware that every jersey is not just a number but a symbol of excellence and dedication.