Team USA is going for the gold medal in the 2024 Olympics and there is heavy competition on the roster.
The NBA has the best basketball talent in the world, and American players have the biggest names when it comes to dominating the court. That is why the expected roster for the upcoming 2024 Olympics looks extremely stacked, especially with reigning MVP Joel Embiid deciding to join the squad.
However, the intense competition for a spot on the Team USA roster has left a trail of talented players and rising stars on the outside looking in. It is time to explore the captivating journey of the NBA players who, despite their immense s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s and potential, may find themselves excluded from the prestigious ranks of Team USA due to the overwhelming presence of basketball stars.
Let’s find out which players will likely not make the cut for the roster despite being very talented players. Barring unforeseen circumstances, these players might not be donning the red, white, and blue alongside the world’s most renowned basketball talents in the upcoming Olympics.
15. Brook Lopez
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 10.0%
Brook Lopez, the talented center for the Milwaukee Bucks, faces a challenging road to securing an invitation from Team USA with the star-studded roster for the 2024 Olympics. His limited chance of 10.0% is primarily attributed to the formidable competition at the center position. The chosen roster includes elite centers like Joel Embiid, Anthony Davis, and Bam Adebayo, who not only excel defensively but also bring substantial offensive contributions.
While Lopez is renowned for his shot-blocking prowess and three-point shooting, these s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s might not be enough to stand out against the remarkable abilities of the superstar trio. Lopez’s distinct playing style, which revolves around his long-range shooting and shot-blocking, may not perfectly align with the diverse s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 sets of the other selected centers.
14. Aaron Gordon
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 15.0%
Aaron Gordon, the versatile forward known for his athleticism and defensive s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s, faces steep competition for an invitation from Team USA for the 2024 Olympics, with a 15.0% chance. Positioned among elite forwards like LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, and Jimmy Butler, Gordon is up against outstanding defenders and offensive powerhouses.
To secure a spot, he may need to outshine these basketball stars and prove his worth on both ends of the court, which is unlikely to happen for obvious reasons. Gordon was arguably the third-best player for the Denver Nuggets’ title run in 2023 and that is why he will receive consideration regardless.
13. Draymond Green
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 20.0%
Draymond Green, the gritty and versatile forward for the Golden State Warriors, carries a 20.0% chance of receiving an invitation to join Team USA for the 2024 Olympics. However, his chances may be tempered by the notion that he is past his prime. While Green has been a linchpin for the Warriors and played an integral role in their championship-winning campaigns, his most impactful years may now be behind him.
In recent seasons, his offensive output has diminished, and he has faced persistent injury concerns that have occasionally hampered his availability. Last season, Green only averaged 8.5 points per game on 30.5% shooting from three. Furthermore, Team USA often prioritizes youth and athleticism, particularly in an Olympic year, as the competition on the global stage is grueling.
12. Khris Middleton
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 20.0%
While Khris Middleton’s ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor is unquestionable and he has played a crucial role in the Milwaukee Bucks’ success, his challenge lies in competing against a group of basketball superstars for a spot on the roster. It isn’t ideal when there are better players ahead of you.
Despite being a key piece of the Bucks’ championship-winning puzzle in 2021, Middleton may not shine as brightly when compared to the other forwards on the Team USA roster. Players like LeBron James, Kawhi Leonard, and Jimmy Butler bring a combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive prowess that could make Middleton’s inclusion a tougher proposition.
11. Jaren Jackson Jr.
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 25.0%
Jaren Jackson Jr., the rising young talent with a 25.0% chance of receiving an invitation to Team USA for the 2024 Olympics, faces a significant hurdle in his relatively underwhelming rebounding statistics. Despite his potential defensive prowess, the mere 2.6 rebounds per game in the 2023 FIBA Tournament highlights a glaring weakness in this aspect of his game.
While he might secure the Defensive Player of the Year award in 2023 with the Memphis Grizzlies, which is undoubtedly a prestigious accomplishment, Team USA’s selection process places an emphasis on all-around contributions. The team often prioritizes players who can excel not only in their specific roles but also in areas that foster team success. Davis, Embiid, and Adebayo are dominant on both ends of the court and get the edge.
10. DeMar DeRozan
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 25.0%
DeMar DeRozan, with a 25.0% chance of earning an invitation to Team USA for the 2024 Olympics, faces some noteworthy challenges that may impact his selection. At 35 years old, by the time of the Olympics, he’ll be among the elder statesmen on the roster, and Team USA often leans towards youth and athleticism in a competitive international setting. It doesn’t make sense to include DeRozan when LeBron James and Stephen Curry will also be a year older from now.
Furthermore, DeRozan’s three-point shooting, at 32.4% in 2023, falls below the desired standard for a team that often emphasizes perimeter shooting and floor spacing. Team USA typically seeks players who can stretch the floor and create space for their star-studded lineups. DeRozan’s inefficiency from beyond the arc could potentially limit his ability to contribute in that crucial aspect.
9. Jalen Brunson
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 30.0%
Jalen Brunson, with a 30.0% chance of receiving an invitation from Team USA for the 2024 Olympics, presents an intriguing case. While he played an important role for Team USA in the 2023 FIBA tournament and appears poised for an All-Star season in 2024, there are some hurdles he faces.
One significant challenge is his stature; he’s considered quite miniature in comparison to some of the other guards in the NBA and on the Team USA roster. In a game where size can be an advantage, especially on the defensive end, Brunson’s smaller frame could potentially limit his impact. Additionally, Team USA boasts an insane depth in the backcourt, with stars like Stephen Curry, Damian Lillard, Devin Booker, and Kyrie Irving in the mix.
8. De’Aaron Fox
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 30.0%
De’Aaron Fox, a bonafide NBA All-Star, is undoubtedly an incredibly quick and confident player, particularly in high-stakes games. However, his path to the Team USA roster faces a formidable challenge in the form of exceptional depth in the backcourt. The team boasts an array of seasoned and star-studded guards, and it’s a daunting task for Fox to prove that he is a better or more experienced candidate than those already on the roster.
In the world of international competition, Team USA seeks a balance of both talent and experience, and Fox might find it challenging to distinguish himself in such a competitive field. His 30.0% chance reflects his outstanding s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s and accomplishments but also the intense competition he will face because he isn’t better than Stephen Curry or Damian Lillard among others.
7. Zach LaVine
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 30.0%
Zach LaVine, with a 30.0% chance of earning an invitation to Team USA for the 2024 Olympics, certainly has several compelling attributes in his favor. He’s in his prime, boasts exceptional athleticism, and showcased his ability to shoot the three-pointer effectively with a 37.5% success rate last season.
However, the challenge for LaVine is the wealth of experienced stars on the Team USA roster, including players like Kyrie Irving, who already have a well-established reputation. While LaVine’s s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s are impressive, Team USA often prioritizes experience and a proven track record on the international stage. Some might argue for LaVine over a player like Kyrie Irving, but veterans will likely get the edge.
6. Zion Williamson
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 35.0%
Zion Williamson, an immensely dominant and promising young talent, holds a 35.0% chance of earning an invitation to Team USA for the 2024 Olympics. The primary factor influencing this percentage is his health. Williamson has shown flashes of superstardom, and if he can manage to stay healthy and have a truly dominant season in 2024, his chances of making the roster will significantly increase.
However, injury concerns have plagued his career thus far (24, 61, 0, 29 games played in his NBA career), making his reliability a significant question mark. To add to the challenge, competition for a spot on Team USA is exceptionally high in the frontcourt. Only Bam Adebayo seems to be replaceable and the Heat star has been more reliable than Williamson so far.
5. Brandon Ingram
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 35.0%
Brandon Ingram, a promising talent with a 35.0% chance of receiving an invitation from Team USA for the 2024 Olympics, certainly brings an exciting s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 set to the table. He’s demonstrated his abilities by earning an NBA All-Star selection in the 2020 season, showcasing his proficiency in both shooting and passing. However, his struggles in the 2023 FIBA Tournament indicate that he may not have found his footing on the international stage, which is crucial when vying for a spot on the Olympic roster.
Ingram only averaged 5.7 points per game and he struggled to find his place. Not to mention, the roster includes outstanding talents such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kawhi Leonard, and Jayson Tatum. These players not only have a wealth of superstar talent but also a proven track record in international competition. Ingram’s chance comes down to injury on the part of the stars.
4. Julius Randle
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 40%
Julius Randle, with a 40% chance of earning an invitation to Team USA for the 2024 Olympics, presents an intriguing scenario. As a two-time All-Star, he brings a solid set of s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s to the table. However, his higher percentage chance is contingent on potential injuries to key big men like Anthony Davis, Joel Embiid, or Bam Adebayo, who are part of the roster. Randle’s s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 set aligns well with the requirements of Team USA in international competition.
Randle’s versatility and ability to contribute on both ends of the court make him a valuable asset. In case of injuries to some of the primary big men on the roster, his inclusion would be a logical choice to maintain depth in the frontcourt. Last season, Randle showed his versatility by posting 25.1 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game.
3. Bradley Beal
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 40.0%
Bradley Beal brings impressive scoring and shooting s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s to the table. His prospects are enhanced by the experience he’ll gain playing alongside Kevin Durant and Devin Booker on the Phoenix Suns in 2024, which should provide valuable exposure to the dynamics of a superteam. However, Beal’s chances hinge on factors such as favoritism over players like Kyrie Irving and the possibility of injuries affecting the roster.
Beal’s ability to adapt and complement the strengths of other star players is a significant asset. In a scenario where Team USA values synergy and experience gained from playing alongside fellow superstars, Beal’s chances are elevated. His 40.0% chance reflects the balancing act of selecting the most effective team, weighing individual talent, teamwork, and potential circumstances that could affect the roster composition.
2. Jaylen Brown
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 40.0%
Jaylen Brown, an All-NBA performer known for his elite two-way s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁s, holds a 40.0% chance of securing an invitation to Team USA for the 2024 Olympics. His impressive athleticism and ability on both ends of the court are undeniable, and his chemistry with fellow NBA star Jayson Tatum can be a valuable asset for team dynamics.
However, Brown faces stiff competition from players like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Jayson Tatum, and Jimmy Butler, who boast a higher level of s𝓀𝒾𝓁𝓁 and experience. His 40.0% chance highlights the potential for a roster spot if he manages to impress during the 2024 season by leading the Boston Celtics to a championship. Team USA often values players who are in peak form and can contribute both individually and as part of a cohesive unit.
1. Donovan Mitchell
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Chance He Will Get Invitation By Team USA: 50.0%
Donovan Mitchell, with a 50.0% chance of earning an invitation to Team USA for the 2024 Olympics, is indeed in contention for a spot on the roster. He brings a unique blend of elite scoring ability and athleticism, which are highly coveted qualities in international competition. His prior experience in the 2019 FIBA Tournament adds to his appeal.
However, the competition among superstar guards, including players like Kyrie Irving, could ultimately determine his fate. Team USA typically values a mix of talent and experience when assembling its roster. His 50.0% chance highlights the level of competition and his potential to secure a spot on the Olympic roster for Team USA although injuries can always happen.
