The stage is set for yet another memorable performance by the USA men's basketball national team at the upcoming Olympics. Tradition, legacy, and a nod to the legends of the past play an integral part in fueling the aspirations of the current squad. As always, the players will don numbers made iconic by the greats who preceded them, a fact underscored by the special bag tags each player received, listing the names of those legends.
Jayson Tatum and the Legacy of No. 10
Jayson Tatum will be sporting the No. 10 jersey, a number with a storied history in Team USA. The likes of Kevin Garnett, Reggie Miller, Anthony Edwards, and Kobe Bryant have all graced the court wearing this iconic digit. For Tatum, the weight of expectation is immense, but so too is the inspiration drawn from these legends.
Bam Adebayo Embraces No. 13
Bam Adebayo is set to wear No. 13 in Paris, a number he continues to wear with pride for the Miami Heat. This jersey carries with it a rich history, having been worn by names such as Tim Duncan and Kevin Love during the 2004 and 2012 Olympics, respectively. Even Shaquille O'Neal sported No. 13 in the 1992 and 1996 Games. "I love the number because my mother also wore it in high school," Adebayo remarked, adding a personal layer to his jersey choice.
LeBron James: A Fourth Olympic Appearance
LeBron James, one of the most iconic names in basketball history, will be playing in his fourth Olympic Games. This time, he will don the No. 6 jersey, a number that has been part of Team USA's storied past. Notably, Team USA coach Steve Kerr wore No. 6 during the 1986 FIBA World Cup, and other legends like Penny Hardaway, Patrick Ewing, and Bill Russell have also donned the same number. With LeBron's unparalleled skill and experience, Team USA fans are eager to see what he brings to the court.
The Rising Star: Tyrese Haliburton
Tyrese Haliburton will take on the mantle of No. 9, a number once worn by basketball greats such as Michael Jordan, Vince Carter, Andre Iguodala, DeMar DeRozan, Dwayne Wade, and even LeBron James in his earlier Olympic appearances. "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 said, acknowledging the honor and the challenge that comes with it. Reflecting on the former No. 9 wearers, Haliburton added, "It's a pretty good crew."
Stephen Curry and the Significance of No. 4
Stephen Curry, known for his sharpshooting and game-changing plays, will wear No. 4, another number steeped in legacy. The list of players who previously wore this jersey includes Jimmy Butler, Chauncey Billups, Carlos Boozer, and Allen Iverson. Curry understands the importance of the number, saying, "That's a pretty solid list," acknowledging the esteemed company he joins.
As the USA men's basketball team gears up for another Olympic journey, the players are not just motivated by personal and team glory but also by a profound sense of history and respect for those who came before them. Each number is more than just an identifier; it is a symbol of the enduring legacy of excellence that has defined Team USA basketball for decades.