The USA Basketball team in Paris is not only about defending gold medals but also about reunions. Kevin Durant and Steph Curry, former teammates from the Golden State Warriors’ dynasty, are back together on Team USA after five years. Durant, despite a calf injury, has been practicing with the team and may play against Serbia.
Durant and Curry first played together in 2010 at the FIBA World Championship, where Durant led the team in scoring. Their partnership continued with the Warriors, where they won back-to-back NBA titles in 2017 and 2018. Durant’s departure from Golden State in 2019 led him to join the Brooklyn Nets, but now they are reunited on the national team.
The chemistry between Durant and Curry could be a game-changer for Team USA, which has been lacking in continuity compared to other national teams. With players like Jrue Holiday, Jayson Tatum, and Derrick White from the Boston Celtics, and LeBron James and Anthony Davis from the Los Angeles Lakers, there are existing connections within the team that could strengthen their performance.
The familiarity between players and coaches, such as Durant having previously played under Steve Kerr, adds to the cohesion of the team. This shared history and experience could give Team USA an edge in the upcoming games. Additionally, young players like Anthony Edwards, who looks up to Durant, are eager to learn and play alongside their basketball idols.
As the 2024 Olympics unfold, the potential for new super teams to emerge, similar to the Miami Heat’s big three, remains uncertain. Players like Haliburton and Edwards have already shown loyalty to their NBA teams by signing contract extensions, but the camaraderie and mutual respect within Team USA could lead to future collaborations in the league.
Despite the challenges and high expectations, Team USA remains optimistic about their prospects in the Olympics. Coach Kerr believes that the team has untapped potential and room for growth, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving success on the international stage. As the games begin, the reunification of Durant and Curry symbolizes a source of hope and inspiration for the team as they strive to bring home another gold medal.
