While we will have to wait until mid-May to know the pre-selection of the French Team for Paris 2024, the United States took everyone by surprise by unveiling its squad of 12 players for the Olympic Games. Each player received a visit from Grant Hill, and the GM of Team USA gave each player their jersey for the 2024 Olympics.
“We didn't necessarily plan it that way, but we knew this was the team we wanted and we also know there's going to be a lot of interest and a lot of people who want to come along with us on this journey amazing “ explains Grant Hillwhich reminds us in passing that this squad can still evolve depending on possible injuries. “We saw, over the years, that we were forced to make changes. There, we have time, in the event of an unforeseen event, to have an emergency plan and we have it at all positions.”
Emphasis on physicality and defense
After the failure at the World Cup, Grant Hill and Steve Kerr wanted the best squad possible, with players accustomed to international competitions. Another important element: an armored interior sector with Anthony Davis, Bam Adebayo and especially Joel Embiid, newly naturalized. Without forgetting the defense since Team USA had conceded more than 110 points in defeats against Lithuania, Germany and Canada.
“Defense was definitely an area where we needed to be better and improve, and we have guys who have that foundation.” continues Hill. “The game is much more physical than in the NBA. So it was important to be aware of that and have players whose play would translate to that level, both defensively and offensively. “It's not a criticism of the teams we've had in the past, but I'm really pleased with the defensive potential of this group.”
TEAM USA ROSTER
Leaders : Stephen Curry, Tyrese Haliburton, Jrue Holiday
Exteriors : LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, Jayson Tatum, Devin Booker, Anthony Edwards
Interiors : Joel Embiid, Anthony Davis, Bam Adebayo
