The USA men's basketball national team is gearing up for another spectacular Olympic journey, and each player is set to don the legendary numbers that have been blessed by some of the sport’s greatest icons. This tradition not only adds a layer of prestige but also connects the present team to the rich history of USA Basketball.
Jayson Tatum's No. 10 Jersey
Jayson Tatum will proudly wear the No. 10 jersey for Team USA, a number steeped in history. This sacred number has previously been sported by the likes of Kevin Garnett, Reggie Miller, Anthony Edwards, and the late, great Kobe Bryant. Tatum now steps into these big shoes, aiming to create his own legacy while honoring the giants who wore the number before him.
Adebayo's Unique Connection to No. 13
Bam Adebayo, a cornerstone for the Miami Heat, will be wearing No. 13 for Team USA in Paris. This particular number holds special significance for Adebayo. "I love the number because my mother also wore it in high school," he shared, adding an emotional touch to the choice. Historically, No. 13 has been adorned by legends such as Tim Duncan and Kevin Love during the 2004 and 2012 Olympics, respectively, and Shaquille O'Neal in the 1992 and 1996 Games.
LeBron James Continues His Legacy with No. 6
LeBron James, making his fourth Olympic appearance, will sport the No. 6 jersey. This number aligns him with an elite group of athletes, including Team USA coach Steve Kerr, who wore it during the 1986 FIBA World Cup, as well as Penny Hardaway, Patrick Ewing, and Bill Russell. LeBron’s presence and experience will undoubtedly be invaluable for the younger players on the team.
Haliburton and Curry's New Numbers
Younger stars like Tyrese Haliburton and Stephen Curry are also stepping into numbers with deep-rooted histories. Haliburton will don No. 9, a number that has a stellar lineage with Michael Jordan, Vince Carter, Andre Iguodala, DeMar DeRozan, Dwyane Wade, and even LeBron James having worn it previously. "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, highlighting the honor and responsibility that accompanies the number. He further acknowledged, "It's a pretty good crew," understanding the legacy he's a part of.
Stephen Curry will wear No. 4, a number carried before by Jimmy Butler, Chauncey Billups, Carlos Boozer, and Allen Iverson. Curry, known for his humility and team spirit, appreciates the prestige associated with the number. "That's a pretty solid list," he noted, recognizing the significant players who previously wore No. 4.
This year’s Team USA is not just about individual talent; it's a tapestry interwoven with history and camaraderie. Every player, by donning their respective numbers, pays homage to the legends who paved the way and further cements their own footprints in the annals of basketball history. As they embark on their Olympic journey, fans will watch with bated breath, eager to see how these modern-day heroes will uphold the legacy and possibly etch their names alongside the legends of the game.