As the USA men's basketball national team gears up for another Olympic campaign, each player has been given a unique piece of history to carry with them, quite literally. In a gesture that bridges the past with the present, every player received a bag tag that lists the names of the legends who previously wore their jersey numbers. For a team that aims to add another golden chapter to its storied legacy, these tags serve as both inspiration and a reminder of the legacy they are expected to uphold.
The Legacy of Number 10
Jayson Tatum, who will don the coveted No. 10 jersey, finds himself in elite company. His tag includes names that reverberate through the annals of basketball history—Kevin Garnett, Reggie Miller, Anthony Edwards, and none other than Kobe Bryant, who wore the number during Team USA’s gold-medal runs in 2008 and 2012. For Tatum, stepping into this role is a significant moment, not just for him but for the prestige of wearing a number that has graced some of the sport's finest talents.
No. 13: A Number Worthy of Legends
Bam Adebayo is set to wear No. 13 in Paris, a number rich in history. Notably, this jersey has been sported by Tim Duncan and Kevin Love during the 2004 and 2012 Olympics, respectively. Shaquille O'Neal, an Olympic veteran, donned No. 13 in the 1992 and 1996 Games. Adebayo, who also wears No. 13 for the Miami Heat, expressed a personal connection to the number, stating, "I love the number because my mother also wore it in high school."
LeBron’s Fourth Olympic Voyage
LeBron James, a stalwart of the USA basketball program, will be playing in his fourth Olympic Games. This time, he will wear No. 6, a number that also carries significant history. Team USA coach Steve Kerr wore No. 6 during the 1986 FIBA World Cup. Other icons like Penny Hardaway (1996), Patrick Ewing (1984, 1992), and Bill Russell (1956) have also worn this number. For James, who has built a career on blending talent with leadership, the upcoming Olympics offer another chance to cement his legacy.
The New No. 9
Tyrese Haliburton will wear No. 9, ensuring continuity in a tradition that boasts basketball royalty. The roster of past players includes Michael Jordan, Vince Carter, Andre Iguodala, DeMar DeRozan, Dwayne Wade, and LeBron James. Haliburton takes this responsibility with a sense of humility and enthusiasm, noting, "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." Recognizing the caliber of his predecessors, he added, "It's a pretty good crew."
Curry’s Choice: Number 4
Stephen Curry, the sharpshooting maestro, will wear No. 4—a number once graced by the likes of Jimmy Butler, Chauncey Billups, Carlos Boozer, and Allen Iverson. Curry appreciates the historical weight of his jersey, succinctly summarizing his thoughts with, "That's a pretty solid list."
As Team USA steps onto the global stage, each player carries more than just their own ambitions. They bear the legacy of those who have paved the way, adding yet another layer to the pride and pressure that comes with representing their country. With each dribble, pass, and shot, they’ll be reminded of the legendary figures who wore their jersey numbers before them, urging them to strive for greatness.