Team USA Basketball: Four NBA Players Who Could Elevate the 3×3 Men’s Team at the 2024 Olympics

Team USA Basketball is making waves at the 2024 Olympics, excelling in the traditional 5-on-5 format. However, the same can’t be said for the 3-on-3 team, which, led by former college star Jimmer Fredette, has lost its first two games. The women’s 3-on-3 team is also struggling, with an 0-for-2 start. This performance is a stark contrast to the dominant 5-on-5 team already advancing to the quarterfinals.

Understanding the unique dynamics of 3-on-3 basketball is crucial to addressing these struggles. This format emphasizes different skills than the 5-on-5 game, necessitating a roster tailored to these specific demands. Let’s explore the key traits needed and propose four NBA players who could enhance Team USA’s 3×3 performance, with the caveat that none of these players have previously participated in a senior men’s Team USA tournament.

Key Traits for 3-on-3 Success

1. Individual Offense: With fewer players on the court, creating scoring opportunities independently becomes vital. Players must generate their own shots off the dribble or in the post, as the flow of traditional team offense is less effective.
2. Shooting: In 3-on-3, two-pointers count for one point and three-pointers count for two. This increased relative value of three-pointers makes proficient outside shooters extremely valuable. A good 3-point shooter in this format can be a game-changer.
3. Defensive Versatility and Toughness: With only three players, hiding a weak defender is challenging. Players need to guard multiple positions and handle one-on-one matchups effectively.

Proposed 3×3 Team Roster

De’Aaron Fox

De’Aaron Fox stands out as an excellent choice for the designated ball-handler role. Although Trae Young was a close contender due to his shooting and playmaking abilities, his defensive liabilities were too significant to ignore. Fox, on the other hand, offers a balance of offensive firepower and defensive capability.

Fox emerged as a significant pull-up shooter last season, averaging 4.6 attempts per game. His lightning-fast speed allows him to penetrate defenses and finish at the rim, complemented by a versatile mid-range game that makes him one of the NBA’s top clutch scorers. Defensively, while not elite, Fox is more reliable than many other offensive-minded guards, making him a solid fit for the 3×3 format.

Herb Jones

Herb Jones is an easy pick for our primary defensive role. His exclusion from the 5-on-5 men’s team is surprising given his defensive prowess. Jones can guard any position on the floor, frequently defending both guards and centers for the Pelicans. His seven-foot wingspan makes him a turnover-generating machine, essential for 3-on-3 defense.

Offensively, Jones has improved his 3-point shooting significantly, hitting 41.8% of his attempts last season. While not a high-volume shooter, he can contribute enough offensively to complement his stellar defense. Scottie Barnes was another consideration, but Jones’ superior defensive skills make him the preferred choice.

Julius Randle

Choosing Julius Randle as our big man brings a mix of offense and defense crucial for the 3×3 game. Brook Lopez would have been ideal, but his prior participation with Team USA disqualifies him. Randle, while not an elite defender, ranks consistently high in post defense and can handle most matchups.

Randle’s offensive versatility is his standout trait. He can score in the post, drive to the basket, and hit jumpers, making him a multifaceted threat. His ability to create for himself and others, combined with his physicality, makes him a perfect fit for the 3×3 format, where mobility and strength are invaluable.

Desmond Bane

Desmond Bane fills the critical role of a reliable shooter. Our first three picks, while capable shooters, aren’t as consistent from deep as Bane. His elite 3-point shooting can stretch defenses and create scoring opportunities, which is crucial given the heightened value of three-pointers in 3×3.

Bane also brings a strong defensive mindset from his time with the Memphis Grizzlies, a team known for its defensive culture. Although not a defensive stopper, Bane maximizes his physical tools to contribute defensively, making him a well-rounded addition to the team.

Conclusion

Revamping Team USA’s 3×3 roster with these four NBA players—De’Aaron Fox, Herb Jones, Julius Randle, and Desmond Bane—addresses the key areas of individual offense, shooting, and defensive versatility. This combination of skills and versatility is designed to navigate the unique challenges of the 3-on-3 format and steer Team USA towards success at the 2024 Olympics. With this new lineup, Team USA has a strong chance to turn their fortunes around and aim for the gold.

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