“It’s more miles put on these tires,” said James. “But if I’m committed — which I am — to Team USA, then I’m going to commit my mind, body and soul to being out there for Team USA, representing our country with the utmost respect and go out there and play.”
Durant is on the USA Basketball Board of Directors and has spoken often about his commitment to the growth of the sport. He wants to not just win gold, but win games by a sizeable margin.
“I want to really make a statement on how dominant our players are Like 40, 50-point wins. I want to do that,” he said on the Boardroom podcast in March.
“I’m trying to play real minutes. I’m trying to be responsible and have a real role, and I know that’s going to come from the work I put in practice and all of that stuff, but I’m ready for that and I’m excited about being around that bond and USA brotherhood again. It’s unmatched.”
Steph Curry and Kawhi Leonard will make their Olympic debuts
Curry and Leonard have both won multiple NBA championships and have been named to several NBA All-Star teams, but neither have played for the U.S. men’s Olympic team. Curry played on FIBA World Cup teams in 2010 and 2014, winning gold both times. Leonard has never played on a U.S. national team.
The Los Angeles’ Lakers big man has won every major title there is in basketball. He’s an NCAA champion, NBA champion, an Olympic champion, and a FIBA World Cup champion. According to USA Basketball, he’s the only man to accomplish these feats, and he will get a chance to add to his trophy haul with Team USA this summer.