In the exciting context of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, Carmelo Anthony, one of the most prominent figures in the history of U.S. Olympic basketball, surprised the sports world by revealing his selection for the best five-man lineup in Team USA history.
What really caught the attention of fans and experts was the absence of Michael Jordan, one of the indisputable legends of this sport, from his list and the star of the so-called Dream Team from the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.
In an interview with BasketNews, Carmelo Anthony, who has won three gold medals and one bronze in his Olympic appearances, explained his selection that includes himself, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, and Charles Barkley.
Larry Bird, Michael Jordan and Magic Johnson.
Jordan’s exclusion, considered by many to be the greatest basketball player of all time, sparked a wave of debates and criticism, questioning the logic behind Anthony’s selection.
Anthony defended his decision, explaining that his selection was influenced more by the impact and relevance of the players in the context of FIBA basketball than by their reputation in the NBA.
According to him, while Jordan had a legendary performance in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics as part of the iconic Dream Team, his limited experience in international competitions under FIBA rules was a determining factor for not including him in his ideal five.
“What he [Jordan] did with the 92 team, that will never be done again“, acknowledged Anthony. However, he argued that Charles Barkley, who was also part of that legendary team, had a more significant impact in the context of FIBA competitions, justifying his inclusion instead of Jordan.
The Dream Team receiving the Olympic gold in ’92.
Another gold for the USA
The United States faced the host nation, France, in the grand final of Paris 2024, a match that was a repeat of the final from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Despite the impressive performance of young French star Victor Wembanyama, who led his team with 26 points, the United States managed to secure its fifth consecutive gold with a 87-98 victory.
LeBron James, who matched Carmelo Anthony’s three golds and one bronze, stood out in the final not only for his performance on the court but also for his leadership.
The Lakers star, accompanied by Durant and Curry, expressed his satisfaction and pride after the victory, emphasizing the importance of having defeated the host team on such a prestigious stage.
“We wouldn’t have imagined the Olympic final any other way; it’s been special to face the host team in a great atmosphere,” LeBron said after the game.
At 39 years old, LeBron showed his happiness for having contributed to another Olympic title for the United States, highlighting the importance of playing with a team full of talent and quality.
Although he has now surpassed Michael Jordan in Olympic medals, LeBron had words of great respect for the Chicago Bulls legend, acknowledging his impact and legacy in world basketball.
“You just look at his silhouette, you look at his skill, and you know he’s one of the best basketball players we’ve ever seen play this sport. He was a pure talent basketball player, an otherworldly guy,” summarized LeBron when talking about Jordan.
Finally, when asked about his possible participation in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, LeBron was clear in discarding that possibility, stating that while he did not see himself playing in Paris 2024, he is now sure he will not compete in another Olympic event.
LeBron James’s Olympic journey and his legacy in international basketball are undeniable, and while comparisons with Michael Jordan continue, it is certain that both players have left an indelible mark on basketball history. However, Carmelo Anthony’s choice to exclude Jordan from his ideal five will remain a topic of debate and discussion in the years to come.