Predicting Team USA's 2028 Olympic Basketball Roster
With the 2024 Paris Olympics behind us, basketball fans are already looking ahead to the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Who will represent Team USA on home soil? Predicting the roster is a popular exercise, and several names are consistently mentioned as likely candidates.
The task of building a winning team is more complex than simply selecting the 12 best players. Combinations need to make sense from a basketball perspective, requiring difficult decisions. Grant Hill, USA Basketball's managing director, will have the final say, but he'll undoubtedly rely on input from his coaching staff.
Key Returners and New Faces
Several players from the 2024 gold-medal-winning team are expected to return, including:
- Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves)
- Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns)
- Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat)
- Anthony Davis (Dallas Mavericks)
- Joel Embiid (Philadelphia 76ers)
- Tyrese Haliburton (Indiana Pacers)
- Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics)
Devin Booker, in particular, is considered a “virtual lock” to make his third straight Olympic team. His performance in Paris, averaging 12 points with impressive shooting splits, solidified his importance to the team.
Potential Additions
Other players in contention for a roster spot include:
- Paolo Banchero (Orlando Magic)
- Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks)
- Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons)
- Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers)
- Jalen Williams (Oklahoma City Thunder)
- Cooper Flagg (Dallas Mavericks)
Cooper Flagg, in particular, is generating buzz. Despite being a rookie, his performance in scrimmages against the senior team last summer impressed many, including Kevin Durant and Grant Hill. While the absence of legends like LeBron James and Stephen Curry opens opportunities, building a cohesive and dominant team remains a challenge for USA Basketball.
The 2028 Olympics being held in Los Angeles should make it easier to attract players, eliminating the travel challenges of previous games. However, the pressure to perform on home soil will be immense.