With the Paris Olympics having just kicked off, it seems that the basketball analysts are scrutinizing Team USA and their journey to a potential gold. Hence, discussion, picking favorites, and/or comparison with the previous rosters of Team USA are likely to follow. And recently, renowned rapper and basketball fan Lil Wayne has raised a few eyebrows with his preference for the current Olympic Team USA. While no one can argue that the 1992 Dream Team is often regarded as one of the greatest basketball teams ever put together, Wayne’s answer might have come as a shock to many.
In one such conversation, Lil Wayne was quick to voice his opinion, “I’ve gotta say, I’d go with the new squad.” Wayne’s choice to side with the 2024 USA Olympics team could be influenced by the star-studded lineup put together by Grant Hill including superstars like LeBron James and Stephen Curry. But, Wayne was not alone in his pick of the current Team USA.
The Celtics legend also favored the present Team USA, as per Skip Bayless. The 72-year-old further revealed that Paul Pierce is so impressed by this year’s Team USA that he is positive that they “would dominate Michael Jordan’s 1992 Dream Team.” According to Pierce, Hill has done a fabulous in bringing together a team that excels in all positions. Further, Pierce added, “You got the greatest scorer, greatest, the greatest shooter, and the best all-around player ever on one team,” naming LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and Anthony Davis.
While Pierce’s confidence lay with the LeBron James-led roster, he was cognizant of the history that the ’92 team has etched. They were unmatched in their dominance, beating their eight opponents by an average of 44 points. Hilariously enough, Pierce added that if the two were ever to get caught in a fight, he would go with the Michael Jordan-led team.
However, as Wayne pointed out, a lot has changed in the hooping world, and Team USA’s recent game against South Sudan, is a great example of this evolution.
Under the guidance and support of Luol Deng, South Sudan proved to be a formidable opponent for Team USA. King James led the charge for Team USA, delivering a pivotal game-winning layup in the final moments. James’s performance was nothing short of crucial, finishing with 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, resulting in a 103-86 victory.
However, South Sudan did not go down without putting up a fight. Players like JT Thor and Marial Shayok made significant contributions, with Thor hitting a crucial three-pointer to briefly give South Sudan the lead with just 20 seconds remaining on the clock. This game highlighted the growing competitiveness of international basketball with the rise of once-known smaller teams capable of taking the stage.
While the ’92 Dream Team’s dominance and toughness are obvious, the modern-day roster, containing superstars like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and Anthony Davis, illustrates the shifting landscape of international basketball. Which team do you think would win in a head-to-head matchup? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Stay tuned for more such updates and join us in the exciting pilot episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and SEC All-Freshman Team Selection, Silas Demary Jr.