As anticipation builds for the upcoming Olympic Games, the USA men's basketball national team is creating a buzz with the nostalgia and inspiration involved with their jersey numbers. Each player has received a unique bag tag listing the legendary names of those who wore their respective numbers before them, adding a historical dimension to their participation.
Jayson Tatum and the Legacy of No. 10
Jayson Tatum, evidently inspired by the tradition, will don the No. 10 jersey, following in the footsteps of some illustrious predecessors. Icons like Kevin Garnett, Reggie Miller, Anthony Edwards, and the late Kobe Bryant have all worn this number for Team USA. Such a lineage brings significant heritage and inspiration for Tatum as he aims to carve out his own legacy.
Bam Adebayo Embraces No. 13
Bam Adebayo is set to wear No. 13 in Paris, a number with substantial history within Team USA. This jersey was previously sported by Tim Duncan in the 2004 Olympics and Kevin Love in 2012. Going further back, it was Shaquille O'Neal who wore No. 13 during both the 1992 and 1996 Games. It’s a number already close to Adebayo's heart, given that he wears it for the Miami Heat.
"I love the number because my mother also wore it in high school," Adebayo shared, highlighting the personal connection that makes the number even more significant for him.
LeBron James: Veteran Presence with No. 6
LeBron James, heading into his fourth Olympic Games, will wear No. 6. This number carries extraordinary significance, having been worn by Team USA coach Steve Kerr during the 1986 FIBA World Cup, as well as legends such as Penny Hardaway, Patrick Ewing, and Bill Russell.
Tyrese Haliburton Steps into No. 9
Tyrese Haliburton is another standout, poised to wear No. 9, a jersey number that comes with an exceptional pedigree. The likes of Michael Jordan, Vince Carter, Andre Iguodala, DeMar DeRozan, Dwayne Wade, and LeBron James have all previously worn this number for Team USA. For Haliburton, this assignment is both an honor and a responsibility.
"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," he remarked with a touch of humility, before adding, "It's a pretty good crew."
Stephen Curry Takes No. 4
Stephen Curry, making his Olympic debut, will wear No. 4. This number too, has a storied past with names like Jimmy Butler, Chauncey Billups, Carlos Boozer, and Allen Iverson attached to it. Curry’s appreciation for the history is evident. "That's a pretty solid list," he observed, acknowledging the caliber of those who preceded him.
As these players prepare to represent the U.S. on one of the biggest stages in sports, they carry with them not just their own aspirations but the legacy of basketball giants who wore their numbers before them. This blend of past and present sets the stage for an unforgettable campaign, where every dribble, pass, and shot will be performed with a sense of historical reverence and pride. Team USA's quest for glory in Paris is not just about winning, but also about honoring the rich heritage of the jersey numbers they wear.